THE 


THOUSAND  AND  ONE  NIGHTS, 


ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

ENTERTAINMENTS. 


A  SEW  EDITION. 


ADAPTED    TO    FAMILY 


EMBELLISHED 
NUMEROUS    CHARACTERISTIC     FJVCi 

OJLUHTiiATKD    F&OM    DESIGNS  BY    D.    0.    JOl^HTOB. 


BOSTON: 
LEE    AND    SHEPARD,    PUBLISHERS. 

NEW   YORK: 
LEE,  SHEPAKD  AND  DILLINGHAM. 


BAEBTBOJT,  AMD 
'a  tte  Okrk*§  offioe  ot  tue  District  Court  of  MwaoJmT«cr 


PREFACE. 


THE  Arabian  Nights'  Entertainments  have  been  published 
in  so  many  forms,  and  their  popularity  is  so  widely  conceded, 
as  to  render  superfluous  any  statement  in  regard  to  their 
peculiarities. 

They  are  still  the  admiration  of  every  person  who  can  ap- 
preciate curious  and  useful  information  conveyed  through  the 
me  iium  of  fiction. 

If  stories  of  this  sort  be  pleasant  and  diverting,  because  of 
the  wonders  they  usually  contain,  these  have  certainly  the  ad- 
vat  ,tage  above  all  that  have  yet  been  published ;  because  they 
an  full  of  surprising  events,  which  engage  our  attention  and 
show  how  much  the  Arabians  surpass  other  nations  in  com 
positions  of  this  sort. 

They  were  written  by  an  Arabian,  and  are  universally  read 
ind  admired  throughout  Asia  by  all  ranks  of  men,  both  old 
and  young;  —  considered,  therefore,  as  an  original  work, — 
descriptive  as  they  are  of  the  manners  arid  customs  of  the 
East  in  general,  and  also  of  the  Arabians  in  particular,  —  they 
mrely  must  be  thought  to  merit,  at  least,  the  attention  of  the 
mrious.  They  are  in  the  same  estimation  all  over  Asia,  that 
<he  adventures  of  Don  Quixote  are  in  Spain ;  or  of  Robinson 
Orusoe,  wherever  the  English  language  is  read,  —  and  no 

438945 


library,  certainly,  would  be  considered  complete  without  both 
of  these  great  works. 

This  edition  of  the  Arabian  Nights,  therefore,  is  not  issued 
as  a  new  work,  but  simply  as  a  new  edition  of  an  old  work  of 
standard  character,  —  *"~"  g  only  the  novelty  of  new  illustra 
tions  and  a  clear,  readau  type. 

The  engravings  in  this  edition  are  all  from  original  designs, 
by  Mr.  D.  C.  Johnston  ;  and  although  not  so  numerous  as  in 
•ome  of  the  other  editions,  yet  it  is  hoped  th«\r  character  wtfl 
fully  compensate  for  any  lack  of  number* 


ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

ENTERTAINMENTS. 


Us  the  deauk  of  Schemseddin  Mohammed,  king  of  Persia, 
Schahriar,  his  eldest  son,  succeeded  to  the  throne.  Thi« 
prince,  though  hasty  and  violent  in  his  temper,  had  many 
virtues.  He  had  the  truest  affection  for  his  youngest  brother, 
Schahzenan ;  and  on  receiving  the  empire,  instead  of  suffering 
him  to  languish  in  obscurity,  he  gave  his  beloved  brother  the 
powerful  kingdom  of  great  Tartary ;  and  sent  him  to  take 
possession  of  it,  with  a  splendor  suitable  to  the  dignity  of  a 
mighty  and  independent  prince. 

After  an  absence  of  ten  years,  the  royal  brothers  had  a 
great  desire  to  see  each  other ;  and  the  king  of  Tartary,  at 
Cie  earnest  request  of  Schahriar,  resolved  to  pay  him  a  visit 
He  accordingly  began  his  journey  with  a  suitable  equipage 
but  as  the  arranging  so  large  a  retinue  prevented  his  advanc- 
ing far  the  first  day,  he  returned  privately  in  the  evening,  to 
his  palace,  to  take  another  farewell  of  his  queen,  whom  he 
passionately  loved.  On  entering  her  apartment  suddenly, 
with  the  hope  oi  giving  her  an  agreeable  surprise,  he  was 
shocked  to  find  her  sleeping  in  the  arms  of  a  slave.  Over- 
come with  rage,  the  king  drew  his  sabre,  and  deprived  then: 
both  of  life.  He  then  returned  to  his  pavilion ;  and  though 
oppressed  with  the  keenest  sorrow,  he  determined  to  pursue 
his  journey. 

When  Schahzenan  arrived  at  the  capital  of  Persia,  tho 
tultan  "wived  him  with  open  arms.  But  a  deep  melancholy 


8  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

*md  seized  the  unfortunate  king  of  Tartary,  which  a.l  th« 
efforts  of  his  brother  could  not  overcome.  In  vain  did  the 
court  of  Persia  exhibit  all  its  splendor.  Schahzenan  remained 
gloomy  and  insensible.  On  a  sudden,  without  any  apparent 
cause,  this  sadness  disappeared,  and  he  became  again,  all  at 
once,  the  same  sprightly  companion  and  affectionate  brother, 
whom  Schahriar  had  so  tenderly  loved  before  their  separation. 

The  sultan  of  Persia  rejoiced  exceedingly  at  this  alteration  5 
bit  le  was  also  much  surprised  at  it.  No  cause  appeared  for 
the  sorrow  which  had  bowed  down  his  brother ;  no  reason 
couU  be  conjectured  why  it  should  so  suddenly  leave  him, 
As  soon  therefore,  as  Schahriar  found  that  the  king  was 
effectually  recovered,  he  became  importunate  for  an  explana- 
tion of  the  mystery.  Schahzenan  made  no  difficulty  of 
acquainting  his  brother  with  the  infidelity  of  his  queen,  but 
entreated  him  to  cease  inquiring  why  he  had  shaken  off  the 
sorrow  which  her  baseness  had  occasioned.  The  sultan 
became  alarmed ;  and  judging  by  the  reluctance  of  his  brother 
that  he  was  somehow  interested  in  the  affair,  he  adjured  the 
king  of  Tartary  to  hide  nothing  from  him. 

Schahzenan  was  obliged  to  comply.  He  requested  the 
sultan  would  indulge  him  only  till  the  next  day,  and  would 
order  the  court  to  prepare  for  a  grand  ^hunting-match  to  take 
place  then.  Schahriar  complied ;  and  as  further  instructed 
by  his  brother,  he  left  his  train,  and  returned  privately  to  the 
king  of  Tartary *s  apartments,  where  there  was  a  closet  which 
overlooked  the  gardens  of  the  sultaness.  Schahzenan  had 
from  thence  accidentally  observed  several  interviews  between 
lhat  lady  and  a  favored  gallant ;  and  from  thence  the  sultan 
also  became  a  witness  of  his  own  dishonor,  and  of  his  wife's 
incontinence  "  It  was  this  unhappy  secret,"  said  Schahzenan, 
"  which  removed  my  despondency ;  as  so  amiable  a  man  a* 
my  brcther  could  not  secure  to  himself  the  possession  of  a 
woman,  it  convinced  me  that  the  whole  sex  were  contaminated 
and  that  it  would  be  idle  in  me  any  longer  to  bewail  st 
common  a  misfortune." 


The  sultan  instan:ly  sacrificed  his  guilty  wife  and  h#i 
paramour ;  and  being  overwhelmed  with  affliction,  proposed 
to  hia  brother  that  they  should  renounce  the  world,  retire 
to  some  obscure  hermitage,  and  finish  their  lives,  without 
being  further  exposed  to  the  treachery  of  women. 

Schahzenan  did  not  think  it  prudent  to  oppose  the  first 
transports  of  his  brother's  rage  and  grief,  he  gave  into  hia 
proposal  with  great  apparent  readiness  ;  but  exacted  a  promise 
from  him,  that  he  would  return  to  his  capital,  and  re-assume 
his  throne,  whenever  they  should  meet  with  any  one  more 
unfortunate  in  female  connections  than  themselves. 

The  princes  having  disguised  themselves,  left  the  city 
secretly  and  travelled  till  evening,  when  they  arrived  at  the 
sea-side.  At  daybreak  they  were  alarmed  by  a  frightful 
noise  from  the  sea,  and  had  scarce  time  to  climb  up  into  a 
tree,  when  they  perceived  a  large  column  arise  in  the  midst 
of  the  water,  and  advance  towards  the  shore.  They  presently 
found  that  it  was  one  of  those  malignant  genii,  who  are 
enemies  to  mankind,  and  always  doing  them  mischief.  He 
was  black,  terrific,  and  appeared  like  a  giant  of  prodigious 
stature  ;  he  carried  on  his  head  a  great  glass  box,  which  shut 
with  four  locks.  Having  laid  his  box  down,  he  seated  himself 
by  it,  and  opened  it ;  when  there  came  out  a  beautiful  lady, 
magnificently  dressed.  She  sat  down  by  the  monster,  who  said 
to  her  in  a  voice  of  tenderness,  "  My  charming  mistress,  whom 
I  stole  on  your  wedding  day,  and  have  loved  with  so  much 
constancy  ever  since,  let  me  repose  awhile  by  you ;  I  came 
hither  on  purpose  to  take  rest."  Having  spoke  thus,  he  laid 
down  his  huge  head  on  the  lady's  knees  and  fell  asleep. 

When  the  genie's  mistress  perceived  that  he  was  so,  she 
raised  his  head  from  her  lap,  and  laid  it  on  the  earth.  She 
then  got  up  and  went  to  the  glass  chest,  and  taking  out  a 
large  string  of  rings,  she  counted  them  over,  and  examined 
them  with  much  attention,  then  turning  towards  the  genie, 
who  was  still  asleep,  she  exclaimed  aloud,  u  Fool,  to  think 
Vhat  jealousy  and  restraint  can  preserve  a  mistress;  not 


8  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

Withstanding  thy  vigilance,  I  find  by  these  rings,  erery  oae  ol 
which  1  have  received  from  a  different  gallant,  that  I  have  had 
fourscore  and  eighteen  lovers  since  I  have  been  in  thy  power ! " 

The  princes  continued  in  the  tree  till  the  genie  awoke, 
who  having  replaced  the  lady  in  the  chest,  and  locked  it  up, 
took  it  again  on  his  head,  and  returned  into  the  sea.  When 
ne  had  been  gone  a  considerable  time  they  descended ;  and 
the  sultan  being  convinced  that  the  genie  was  more  unfor- 
tunate than  himself,  yielded  to  the  persuasions  of  his  brother, 
returned  to  his  capital,  and  resumed  his  government.  After 
some  time  the  king  of  Tartary  choosing  to  return  home,  the 
eultan  dismissed  him  with  every  mark  of  fraternal  love,  and 
on  his  departure  said  to  him,  *  I  have  at  length  fallen  upon 
a  method  to  preserve  the  chastity  of  a  wife:  I  Tyill  not  now," 
added  he,  "  explain  myself;  you  will,  no  doubt,  shortly  hear 
of  it ;  and  I  question  not  but  you  will  follow  my  example." 

Soon  after  the  departure  of  Schahzenan,  the  sultan  chose 
the  daughter  of  one  of  his  nobles  for  his  bride ;  the  nuptial 
ceremony  was  performed ;  the  lady  passed  her  night  with  her 
royal  bridegroom ;  and  in  the  morning  the  grand  vizier  re- 
ceived her  from  his  hands,  with  orders  to  put  her  to  death 
immediately.  Every  night  now  saw  a  new  bride  conducted 
to  the  sultan's  bed,  and  every  morning  beheld  her  a  victim  to 
his  jealousy :  the  consternation  was  universal ;  there  was  no 
parent  who  had  a  young  and  beautiful  daughter,  but  trembled 
for  her  life ;  and  the  sultan,  instead  of  receiving,  as  before,  the 
blessings  of  his  people,  became  the  object  of  their  execrations. 

The  implicit  obedience  which  good  Mussulmen  owe  to 
the  commander  of  the  Faithful,  had  as  yet  restrained  the 
inhabitants  of  Bagdad  from  rebellion,  nor  had  they  taken  any 
measure  to  preserve  their  children  from  so  new  a  calamity ; 
when  the  beauteous  and  accomplished  Scheherazade,  daughter 
of  the  grand  vizier,  undertook  to  deliver  them  from  it,  by 
becoming  the  destined  bride.  Her  father  was  astonished  when 
she  declared  her  design.  He  used  every  argument  and 
entreaty  to  p<  rsuade  her  from  it ;  and  agreeably  to  the 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  V 

EJstom  of  the  East,  he  endeavored  to  enforce  Ha  reasoning 
by  the  following  apologue. 

The   Ox,  the  Ass,  and  the  Farmer. 

THERE  lived  in  a  certain  country  a  very  wealusy  farmer, 
whose  lands  were  cultivated  with  the  greatest  care,  and 
abounded  with  all  sorts  of  cattle  and  poultry.  It  so  happened 
that  he  had  an  opportunity  to  render  essential  service  to  a 
very  powerful  genie ;  who,  in  return,  at  the  farmer's  request^ 
endowed  him  with  the  faculty  of  understanding  the  language 
of  all  animals ;  but  on  this  express  condition,  that  he  should 
never  interpret  it  to  any  one,  on  pain  of  death. 

Some  time  after  this  event,  the  farmer  was  walking  leisurely 
in  his  yard,  when  he  heard  the  following  conversation  between 
an  ox  and  an  ass :  "  Sprightly,"  said  the  ox,  "  how  much  do  1 
envy  your  condition !  you  have  no  labor,  except  now  and  then 
to  carry  our  master  little  journies ;  in  return  for  which  you 
are  well  fed  with  the  best  corn,  carefully  cleaned,  and  lodged 
in  fresh  straw  every  night ;  while  I,  who  work  from  day-light 
till  dar&,  and  am  urged  by  the  blows  of  the  ploughman  to  toil 
almost  beyond  my  strength,  when  my  hard  task  is  performed, 
am  scantily  supplied  with  coarse  food,  and  pass  the  night  on 
the  common." 

"  Those,"  replied  the  ass,  "  who  call  you  a  foolish  beast , 
are  not  much  mistaken.  Why  do  you  not  with  all  that  strength, 
exert  a  little  courage,  and  resist  such  ill  treatment  ?  If  they 
give  you  bad  corn,  smell  at  it  and  leave  it !  and  when  they 
are  about  to  fasten  you  to  the  plough,  bellow  aloud,  stamp 
with  your  foot,  and  even  strike  them  with  your  horns. 
Be  assured  a  little  resolution  will  soon  procure  you  better 
treatment." 

The  farmer  having  heard  this  conversation,  was  not  long 
in  coming  to  a  resolution.  The  next  morning  fhe  laborei 
found  the  ox  restive,  when  he  attempted  to  yoke  him ;  ou 
vhich,  by  hia  master's  orders,  he  left  him,  and  putting  tfe« 


10  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

collar  on  the  ass,  he  fixed  him  to  the  plougn,  and 
blows  compelled  him  to  perform  the  work  the  ox  should  have 
done.  Nor  was  this  all ;  for  when  he  returned  at  night,  more 
dead  than  alive,  he  found  no  straw  to  lie  on  ;  and  instead  of  a 
plentiful  supply  of  the  best  oats,  there  was  nothing  in  his 
manger  but  a  handful  of  coarse  beans,  ill-cleansed,  which  even 
liis  extreme  hunger  could  scarcely  prevail  with  him  to  eat. 

The  ox,  who  had  rested  the  whole  day,  and  been  fed  with 
the  provender  usually  given  to  his  companion,  received  him 
on  his  return  with  many  compliments,  and  avowals  of  obliga- 
tion. To  these  ceremonies  the  ass  had  no  relish ;  without 
answering  a  word  he  threw  himself  on  the  ground,  and,  in 
thought,  began  to  upbraid  his  own  folly :  "  Was  ever  such 
imprudence  as  mine  ? "  said  he  within  himself ;  "  how  has  a 
silly  officiousness  undone  me  ?  what  had  I  to  wish  for  that  1 
did  not  enjoy  ?  when  did  sorrow  ever  approach  me  ?  All  this 
happiness  I  have  deservedly  lost,  by  meddling  with  that  which 
did  not  concern  me." 

The  grand  vizier  applied  the  obvious  moral  to  Schehera- 
zade. But  finding  she  persisted,  he  became  angry.  "  If  you 
will  continue  thus  obstinate,"  said  he,  "  you  will  oblige  me  to 
treat  you  in  the  same  manner  the  farmer  did  his  wife  ir  the 
*equel  of  the  story." 

The  farmer  hearing  that  the  ass  was  in  bad  plight,  was 
curious  to  know  what  would  pass  between  him  and  the  ox. 
Accordingly,  after  supper,  he  took  a  walk  with  his  wife  into 
the  yard,  when  he  heard  the  sufferer  say  to  his  companion : 
u  Comrade,  what  do  you  intend  to  do  to-morrow,  when  the 
laborer  brings  your  meat  ?"  "  Do !  my  best  friend,"  replied 
the  ox,  "  why,  I  will  carefully  attend  to  your  instructions ;  ff 
my  corn  is  not  of  the  very  best  quality,  I  will  not  deign  to 
touch  it ;  and  if  he  presumes  to  lay  a  halter  on  me,  I  will  D  3t 
fail  to  knock  1  im  down." 

"  I  fancy,"  replied  the  ass,  "  you  will  think  it  prudent  to 
«dter  that  resolution,  when  I  relate  to  you  what  I  heard  oui 
waster  say  to  the  Jaboier  just  now."  The  ass  having  tLui 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  1* 

Micite<?  the  Attention  and  fear  cf  the  ox,  told  him  veiy  grAtely, 
that  the  farmer  had  ordered  his  servant,  if  the  ox  continueJ 
restive,  to  knock  him  on  the  head  the  day  following,  and 
distribute  his  flesh  among  the  poor.  The  ox  alarmed  at 
this  story,  bellowed  aloud  for  fear,  and  vowed  submission 
to  the  laborer,  which  resolution  the  ass  was  forward  to 
commend. 

The  farmer  was  so  pleased  with  the  cunning  of  the  ass,  and 
the  terrors  of  the  ox,  that  he  burst  into  an  immoderate  fit  of 
laughter.  His  wife,  who  saw  no  reason  for  this  extraordinaiy 
mirth,  was  curious  to  know  the  cause  of  it.  He  tried  to  evade 
her  question ;  but  the  more  he  sought  to  divert  her  attention, 
the  more  earnest  she  became  in  her  inquiry  ;  at  length,  tired 
with  ner  importunity,  he  told  her  that  the  cause  of  hia 
laughing  must  continue  a  secret :  "  You  will  not,  I  suppose," 
added  he,  "  urge  me  any  further,  when  I  acquaint  you  that 
my  revealing  it  would  certainly  cost  me  my  life." 

This  assertion,  which  she  affected  not  to  believe,  made  the 
wife  redouble  her  importunities ;  the  farmer,  however,  con- 
tinued resolute,  and  suffered  her  to  pass  the  night  in  tears 
without  much  concern.  But  when  he  found  next  day  that  the 
same  obstinate  desire  of  the  fatal  information  continued,  he 
was  exceedingly  distressed.  He  called  in  the  assistance  of 
his  neighbors  and  relations,  who  in  vain  represented  to  her  the 
unreasonableness  of  her  request.  She  persisted,  and  the 
unhappy  farmer  was  on  the  point  of  gratifying  her,  at  the 
expense  of  his  life,  when  an  incident  determined  him  to  alter 
his  intention. 

Going  out  of  his  door,  he  heard  his  faithful  dog  relating 
with  concern  the  story  of  his  embarrassment  to  a  cock,  who 
beard  it  with  much  contempt :  "  A  pretty  fellow,  truly,* 
replied '  the  cock,  "  is  this  master  of  ours,  who  cannot  manage 
one  wife,  when  I  govern  fifty !  Let  him  take  a  good  crab- 
stick,  and  use  it  properly,  I  will  engage  she  will  soon  dismi&i 
her  impertinent  curiosity."  The  honest  farmer  took  the 
(tint;  his  wife  returned  to  her  duty;  and  you,  ny  daugb 


1^  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

er,  if  treated  in  the  same  manner,  would  no  doubt  be  aa 
conformable  to  my  desires,  and  forego  so  desperate  an 
experiment 

Notwithstanding  this  and  every  other  method  taken  to 
shake  her  determination,  Scheherazade  continued  unmoved; 
and  the  grand  vizier  was  obliged  to  announce  to  his  sovereign 
the  ambition  of  his  daughter.  The  sultan  heard  him  with 
surprise;  after  pausing  for  a  few  moments,  he  said  to  him, 
with  an  air  of  severity :  "  I  give  you  opportunity  to  recall  this 
rash  offer ;  if  you  persist  in  it,  I  will  receive  Scheherazade  as 
my  wife ;  but  presume  not  to  hope  that  I  will  violate  my  vow 
in  her  favor ;  on  the  contrary,  your  own  life,  as  well  as  hero 
shall  tfe  forfeited,  if  you  hesitate  for  a  moment  to  execute  my 
usual  orders."  Even  this  menace  had  no  effect  on  the  young 
lady;  and  the  unhappy  father  was  compelled  to  lead  his 
darling  child  to  the  arms  of  his  sovereign,  with  a  full  assurance 
of  being  obliged  to  deprive  her  of  life  with  his  own  hand  the 
following^porning. 

When  Scheherazade  was  introduced  to  the  sultan,  he  was 
struck  with  her  beauty,  and  modest  sensibility.  Perceiving 
her  in  tears,  he  for  a  moment  forgot  his  barbarous  resolution, 
wid  endeavored  to  comfort  her.  The  lovely  Sultaness,  pleased 
to  see  she  had  made  an  impression  on  his  savage  heart,  seized 
that  moment  to  request  that  her  sister,  Dinarzade,  might  b€ 
admitted  to  her  next  morning,  an  hour  before  day,  to  take  her 
last  farewell.  The  sultan  readily  complied ;  and  notice  being 
sent  to  her  sister  accordingly,  the  charming  Scheherazade 
Buffered  herself  to  be  conducted  to  the  fatal  couch,  and 
became  the  devoted  bride  to  the  cruel  Schahriar. 

At  the  appointed  hour,  Dinarzade  was  admitted  to  the 
nuptial  chamber  ;  when  she  made  the  strange  request,  that  in 
the  little  time  which  remained,  before  they  were  to  part  for- 
ever, the  sultaness  would  relate  to  her  one  of  those  many 
entertaining  stories  she  had  read ;  the  sultan  wondering  at  so 
singular  a  request,  consented,  at  the  desire  of  his  bride,  and 
expressed  a  wish  to  hear  stories  which  must  be  sing  ilai 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  18 

mdeed,  to  be  asked  for  at  such  a  moment.      Schenenuad* 
encouraged  by  this  wish,  began  thus :  — 

The  Merchant  and  the  Genie. 

SIR,  there  was  formerly  a  merchant  whose  extensive  traffi 
obliged  him  to  travel  to  many  places ;  in  one  of  which  journies 
finding  himself  much  incommoded  by  the  heat  of  the  day,  he 
alighted  from  his  horse,  and  sat  down  in  a  shady  grove ;  whec 
taking  some  dates  out  of  his  portmanteau,  he  ate  them,  throw- 
ing the  shells  on  each  side  of  him.  When  he  had  done  eating, 
being  a  good  mussulman,  he  washed  his  hands  and  feet  at  an 
adjoining  rivulet,  and  said  his  prayers.  While  he  was  yet  on 
his  knees,  a  monstrous  genie,  all  white  with  age,  advanced 
towards  him  with  a  scimitar  in  his  hand  ;  and  uttering  a  fright- 
ful cry,  exclaimed,  "  rise  up  that  I  may  kill  thee,  'as  thou  hast 
killed  my  son."  The  merchant,  terrified  as  much  at  his 
appearance,  as  at  his  threats,  protested  his  innocence.  "  How," 
exclaimed  the  genie,  "  did  you  not,  even  now,  throw  about  the 
shells  of  your  dates  ?  my  son  was  passing  by,  and  you  threw 
one  of  them  into  his  eye,  which  killed  him ;  therefore  I  must 
Kill  ;hee."  Saying  which,  he  took  the  merchant  by  the  arm, 
threw  him  on  the  ground,  and  lifted  up  the  scimitar  to  cut  off 
his  head. 

In  this  imminent  danger,  the  merchant  earnestly  entreated 
permission  to  return  home,  and  settle  his  affairs,  and  take  leave 
of  his  family.  "  What  time  do  you  require  ?  "  said  the  genie. 
" 1  a^k  a  year,"  replied  the  merchant ;  "  I  swear  by  Allah,  that 
this  day  twelvemonth  I  will  return  under  these  trees,  to  pul 
myself  into  your  hands."  Upon  this  the  genie  disappeared. 

The  merchant  returned  home  disconsolate.  He  employed 
the  allotted  time  in  properly  regulating  his  affairs,  and  when 
it  was  near  expired,  he  took  a  sorrowful  leave  of  his  family, 
and  arrived  at  the  place  where  he  had  promised  to  meet  the 
genie.  While  he  was  waiting  for  his  dreaded  approach  he 
saw  two  old  men  coming  towards  him  from  different  quarter^ 
the  fir*  leading  a  hind,  the  second  two  blajk  dogs. 
2 


14  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

They  approached  the  trees  where  the  unfortunate  merchant 
was  sitting,  when  one  of  them  said  to  him,  "  Brother,  why  do 
you  stay  in  this  place?  Do  you  not  know  that  a  number  of 
«vil  spirits  resort  to  it,  and  that  it  is  by  no  means  safe  to  con- 
tinue here  ?  "  "  Alas  •  '*  said  the  merchant,.  "  I  know  that  but 
too  well."  He  then  related  his  story'  to  the  old  men,  who 
having  heard  it,  agreed  to  continue  with  him  until  the  genie 
•hould  appear. 

In  a  little  time  they  perceived  a  thick  vapor  advancing 
towards  them,  which  vanishing  all  at  once,  discovered  the 
genie.  "Without  noticing  the  old  men,  he  took  the  merchant 
by  the  arm,  saying,  "  Rise,  that  I  may  kill  thee,  as  thou  didst 
kill  my  son."  The  merchant  filled  the  air  with  his  cries  ;  and 
the  old  men  prostrating  themselves  on  the  ground,  entreated 
for  him.  The  genie,  with  some  difficulty,  was  persuaded  to 
listen  to  their  expostulations,  and  at  length  to  agree,  that  if 
their  several  adventures  were  more  surprising  than  that  of  the 
merchant,  he  would  relent,  and  set  him  at  liberty. 

Day  advancing,  the  sultan  arose,  and  the  vizier,  in  much 
affliction,  entered  into  his  presence  in  full  expectation  of 
receiving  the  usual  fatal  orders ;  but  the  sultan  was  so  much 
taken  with  the  beauty  and  accomplishments  of  his  lady,  and 
his  curiosity  was  so  much  excited  by  the  interesting  story  she 
had  began,  that  he  became  irresolute  respecting  his  vow ;  and 
talking  to  his  trembling  vizier  on  other  affairs,  he  left  him  in 
suspense  also  as  to  the  fate  of  his  beloved  daughter. 

The  next  morning  Scheherazade  resumed  her  narrative  with 
the  history  of 

The  Old  Man  and  the  Hind. 

"  I  married,"  begau  the  first  old  man,  "in  my  early  life,  my 
cousin  with  whom  I  lived  more  than  twenty  years  in  much 
happiness.  The  only  thing  that  abated  it  was,  that  we  had  n« 
children.  The  desire  of  posterity  induced  me  to  buy  a  slave, 
by  whom  I  shortly  had  a  son.  I  still  lived  in  great  harmony 
«dth  my  wife,  who  always  treated  the  slave  kindly  and 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  i«J 

appeared  /o  be  very  fond  of  my  boy.  Some  years  after  Lia 
birth,  I  was  obliged  to  go  a  long  journey,  and  on  my  return^ 
oay  wife  told  me  that  my  son  and  my  slave  were  both  dead 
I  lamented  their  loss  very  much ;  but  the  feast  of  Bairam 
approaching,  I  thought  it  my  duty  to  overcome  my  sorrow, 
And  prepare  for  the  holy  festival. 

"  Accordingly  I  gave  orders  to  my  farmer  Tb^hring  ap  one 
of  the  fattest  cows,  to  sacrifice  at  the  commencement  of  the 
solemnity.  He  obeyed;  but  when  the  cow  was  brought  to 
me  she  bellowed  piteously,  and  I  could  perceive  tears  run 
down  from  her  eyes.  Struck  with  so  singular  a  spectacle,  and 
moved,  I  Kiiovr  not  how,  I  was  about  to  send  the  cow  back 
and  order  another,  when  my  wife  opposed  any  exchange  with 
great  vehemence.  I  suffered  myself  to  be  prevailed  on ;  and 
though  I  could  not  kill  her  myself,  I  ordered  my  farmer  to  do 
so,  who  obeyed  me.  When  she  was  slain,  it  was  found,  not- 
withstanding her  plump  appearance,  that  she  was  mere  skin 
and  bone  ;  and  wholly  unfit  for  the  intended  sacrifice. 

"  I  immediately  sent  for  another  fat  beast ;  when  the  farmer 
brought  a  calf,  whose  behavior  was  still  more  extraordinary. 
He  broke  the  cord,  ran  to  me,  and  fell  at  my  feet.  I  deter- 
mined to  listen  to  the  impulse  I  felt  in  favor  of  this  calf,  and 
accordingly  ordered  him  to  be  taken  back  ;  although  my  wife 
interfered  with  still  greater  eagerness,  and  insisted  that  he 
should  be  slaughtered. 

"  The  day  following,  my  farmer  desired  to  speak  with  me 
alone.     He  took  me  to  his   own  habita  ion,  and  introducei 
me  to  his  daughter  ;  by  her  I  was  informed  that  during  m^ 
journey,  my  wife  had   learned  the  black  art ;  and  by  *h* 
means  had  transformed  my  slave  into  the  cow  we  had  unfoi 
tunately  slaughtered  the  day  before ;  and  my  son  into  the  cai 
which  had  so  narrowly  escaped. 

"  I  leave  you  to  judge,  powerful  genie,  how  much  I  was  dis- 
tressed at  this  account.  But  not  doubting  my  informer  wa« 
able  to  restore  my  son,  as  she  had  the  skill  to  discover  hii 
tituation,  I  very  earnestly  besought  her  assistance.  '  On  tw« 


16  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

Conditions,'  replied  she,  <  I  will  restore  him.  First,  tbat  Jro* 
give  him  me  for  a  husband ;  and  secondly,  that  you  permit  me 
to  punish  as  she  deserves,  the  wicked  enchantress  who  has 
transformed  him/  I  consented;  she  then  pronounced  certain 
words,  and  sprinkling  my  son  with  water,  he  resumed  his 
shape.  He  joyfully  married  his  fair  benefactress,  who 
changed  my  wicked  wife  into  the  hind  you  see  here." 

The  Story  of  the  Old  Man  with  the  two  Black  Dogs. 

u  PRINCE  of  genii,"  said  the  second  old  man,  "  these  dogs 
and  myself  are  brothers.  On  the  death  of  our  father  we 
divided  his  substance  among  us,  and  each  received  a  thousand 
sequins.  One  of  my  brothers  resolved  to  travel,  laid  out  his 
money  in  goods  suited  to  the  country  he  intended  to  visit,  and 
departed. 

"After  a  year's  absence  he  returned  in  great  distress, 
having  lost  all  his  effects.  Meantime,  by  industry,  I  had 
acquired  an  additional  thousand  sequins,  which  I  readily  gave 
him.  My  other  brother,  not  disheartened  by  the  ill  success 
of  the  first,  pursued  the  same  measures ;  very  shortly  he  also 
returned  entirely  ruined.  To  him  also  I  gave  another  thousand 
sequins ;  we  then  agreed  to  remain  at  home,  and  pursue  our 
business  carefully,  without  seeking  further  adventures. 

"  Some  years  afterwards,  both  my  brothers  besought  me  to 
join  with  them  in  a  trading  voyage.  Their  importunity  pre- 
vailed. I  disposed  of  my  stock,  which  now  produced  six 
thousand  sequins,  half  of  which  1  buried  in  a  corner  of  the 
house,  and  gave  each  of  my  brothers  a  thousand  of  the  rea-ain- 
der.  We  arrived  safely  at  our  destined  port,  where  we  sold 
our  adventures  to  good  profit. 

"When  we  were  nearly  ready  to  return,  1  met  on  the 
banks  of  the  sea  a  lady,  handsome,  but  poorly  clad,  who  very 
earnestly  persuaded  me  to  marry  her.  I  consented,  and 
having  taken  her  on  board  the  vessel,  we  set  sail.  My  wifo 
proved  to  be  possessed  of  so  many  good  qualities  that  I  becain* 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 

every  day  more  fond  of  her.  My  unworthy  brothers,  envying 
my  superior  good  fortune,  seized  us  both  while  asleep,  and 
threw  us  into  the  sea. 

"  But  little  did  these  bad  men  imagine  the  punishment  that 
•waited  their  cruelty  and  ingratitude.  My  wife  was  a  fairy , 
she  conveyed  me  home,  and  conducted  the  vessel  which  had 
my  goods  on  board,  safe  into  port.  Before  I  knew  of  its 
Arrival,  two  black  dogs  came  crouching  to  me  in  the  most  sub- 
missive manner.  '  These,'  said  the  fairy,  *  are  your  brothers  > 
Thus  is  their  wickedness  requited;  and  it  is  one  part  of 
their  punishment,  that  in  this  degraded  state  they  must  look 
for  support  and  protection  to  the  brother  they  so  basely 
betrayed/  " 

The  gen;e  thought  these  adventures  so  singular,  that  he 
remitted  the  punishment  of  the  merchant,  and  disappeared  ; 
and  the  mei  iant,  after  suitably  thanking  his  benefactors, 
returned  hoiLe  again  with  joy  to  his  family. 

The  sultan  Wcis  delighted  with  these  stories.  He  requested 
Scheherazade  to  proceed  next  night  to  another ;  and  going  into 
the  divan,  the  vrzier,  his  family,  the  court,  and  the  people  in 
general,  were  overjoyed  to  find  that  he  gave  no  orders  to  put 
the  beautiful  sultaness  to  death. 

The  Story  of  the  Fisherman. 

THERE  was  a  fisherman,  who,  when  young,  had  indiscreetlj 
vowed  not  to  cast  his  net  above  four  times  a  day.  This  vow 
he  religiously  observed  ;  though  when  he  came  to  have  a 
numerous  family,  he  had  often  occasion  to  regret  his  having 
made  it. 

One  morning  having  thrown  his  net  three  times  without  the 
ieast  success,  he  was  almost  wild  with  grief.  Another  cast 
onlv  remained,  which  he  determined  to  take  with  particular 
attention.  Having  thrown  it,  instead  of  fish  he  drew  up  only 
a  small  vessel  of  copper  with  a  leaden  seal  to  it.  This  seal 
he  eagerly  removed,  in  hopes  of  finding  something  valuable 
^at  to  his  grea'  mortification,  the  casket  was  empty  H« 

2* 


i8  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 


it  on  the  ground  and  continued  to  eye  it  iir.  a  kiud  il 
despair,  when  he  perceived  a  thick  smoke  to  come  out  of  it, 
which  mounted  to  the  clouds,  and  extending  itself  along  the 
sea  and  shore,  formed  a  great  mist.  When  the  smoke  was  all 
out  of  the  vessel,  it  connected  itself  into  one  body,  which 
formed  an  enormous  genie. 

At  the  sight  of  so  terrible  a  figure,  the  fisherman  would 
have  fled,  but  was  too  much  terrified.  "  Solomon,  Solomona 
the  great  prophet  !  "  exclaimed  the  genie,  "  pardon,  pardon 
pardon  ;  I  never  more  will  oppose  your  will  !  "  The  fisherman 
hearing  this,  took  courage,  and  said,  "  Thou  proud  spirit,  what 
is  it  thou  talkest  of?  it  is  eighteen  hundred  years  ago  since  the 
prophet  Solomon  died  !  Tell  me  your  history,  and  how  you 
came  to  be  shut  up  in  that  vessel." 

The  genie  turning  to  his  deliverer,  with  a  fierce  look,  said, 
"  Thou  art  very  bold  to  call  me  a  proud  spirit.  Speak  to  me 
more  civilly,  before  I  kill  thee."  "  What,"  replied  the  fisher- 
man, "  would  you  kill  me  for  setting  you  at  liberty  ?  Is  that 
the  way  you  reward  the  service  I  have  done  you  ?  "  "I  cannot 
treat  you  otherwise,"  replied  the  genie  ;  "  and  that  you  may 
be  convinced  of  it,  listen  to  my  story  :  I  am  one  of  those  rebel 
lious  spirits  who  opposed  themselves  to  the  will  of  heavei 
The  other  genii  owned  Solomon  the  great  prophet,  and  sub- 
mitted to  him.  Sacar  and  I  only  resisted.  That  potent 
monarch  caused  me  to  be  seized  and  brought  by  force  before 
his  throne!  when,  as  I  daringly  persisted  in  my  disobedience, 
he  shut  me  up  in  this  copper  vessel  ;  and  that  I  might  not 
escape,  he  himself  stamped  his  seal,  with  the  great  name  of 
God  engraven  on  it,  upon  this  leaden  cover  ;  and  ordered  it  to 
be  cast  into  the  midst  of  the  sea. 

"  During  the  first  century  of  my  imprisonment,  I  swore  that 
if  any  one  would  deliver  me,  I  would  make  him  immensely 
rich.  During  the  second,  1  vowed  that  I  would  open  all  the 
treasures  of  the  earth  to  any  one  who  should  set  me  fre<i.  ID 
the  third,  I  promised  to  make  my  deliverer  a  mighty  prince. 
%nd  to  be  always  his  attendant  spirt.  Mary  centuries  passed 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  IV 

aver,  auJ  I  continually  increased  ray  promises  to  him  *hu 
should  render  me  so  essential  a  service ;  but  all  in  vain ;  no 
one  was  so  lucky  as  to  find  the  coffer,  and  by  opening  it.  to 
obtain  the  rewards  I  had  bound  myself  to  bestow.  At  last, 
enraged  and  tired  with,  so  long  a  confinement,  I  vowed  that  if 
any  one  should  set  me  at  liberty,  I  would  kill  him  without 
mercy ;  therefore,  as  you  have  this  day  delivered  me,  prepare 
yourself  to  die." 

This  discourse  terrified  the  poor  fisherman  beyond  measure ; 
but  as  necessity  is  the  parent  of  ingenuity,  he  addressed  the 
genie  thus :  "  If  it  must  be  so,  I  submit ;  but  before  I  die,  I 
conjure  you  by  the  great  name  which  was  engraven  on  the 
seal  of  the  prophet  Solomon,  that  you  grant  me  one  request, 
in  return  for  the  service  I  have  done  you,  which  you  have 
obliged  yourself  to  repay  so  hardly."  The  genie  trembled  at 
the  adjuration,  and  answered  hastily,  "  Ask  what  thou  wilt, 
but  quickly." 

"  I  cannot  believe,"  said  the  fisherman,  "  that  you  was 
really  confined  in  that  vessel ;  it  will  not  hold  one  of  your 
feet.  I  adjure  you,  therefore,  by  the  oath  you  have  taken,  to 
enter  into  it  again,  that  I  may  be  convinced,  and  acquit  you, 
before  I  die,  of  ingratitude  and  murder." 

The  body  of  the  genie  instantly  dissolved,  and  changing  into 
a  mist,  extended  itself  as  before.  At  last  it  began  to  enter  the 
vessel,  which  it  continued  to  do,  by  a  slow  and  equal  motion, 
till  nothing  was  left  out ;  and  immediately  a  voice  came  forth, 
which  said,  "Well,  incredulous  fellow!  I  am  in  the  vessel 
now ;  are  you  satisfied  ?  " 

The  fisherman  instantly  shut  down  the  cover  :  "  Now  genie, 
it  is  thy  turn  to  entreat  in  vain.  —  I  will  return  thee  to  the 
fea  whence  I  took  thee,  and  will  erect  A  monument  to  caution 
ither  fishe-men,  if  they  chance  to  meet  with  thee,  that  they 
may  be  aware  of  such  a  wicked  genie  as  thou  art,  who  hast 
sworn  to  kill  thy  deliverer  ! "  The  genie  endeavored  with  his 
utmost  force  to  get  out  of  the  vessel  again ;  but  the  seal  of 
&>1  >mon  restrained  him.  Dissembling  therefore  his  anger,  ht 


20  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

addressed  tLe  fisherman  in  a  more  pleasant  tone ;  begged  hiflfc 
wee  more  to  remove  the  cover,  and  promised  to  reward  hiia 
to  his  full  satisfaction.  "  Thou  art  a  traitor,"  replied  the 
fisherman,  "  and  I  should  deserve  to  lot,;  my  life,  if  I  was  so 
foolish  as  to  trust  thee.  No  doubt  you  would  use  me  as  th« 
Grecian  king  did  the  physician  Douban.  'T  is  a  story  I  havtj 
«  mind  to  tell  thee,  before  I  return  thee  to  the  faithless  ela- 
nent,  in  which  I  found  thee." 


The  Story  of  the  Grecian  King  and  the  Physician  Douban. 

THERE  was  a  king  of  Greece  who  was  sorely  afflicted 
with  a  grie\ous  leprosy.  His  physicians  had  exerted  all  theii 
art  in  vain  ;  his  case  was  declared  hopeless,  and  he  expected 
every  day  to  sink  under  the  loathsome  disease  which  oppressed 
him.  At  this  time  there  came  to  his  court  a  strange  physician, 
named  Douban,  who,  after  examining  the  patient,  asserted  that 
so  far  from  the  king  being  incurable,  he  would  undertake  to 
k*estore  his  health  without  either  inward  potions  or  outward 
applications.  This  extraordinary  proposal  was  readily  accept- 
ed. The  physician  prepared  a  racket  and  besought  the  king 
to  play  at  tennis  with  it.  "  I  have  lodged,"  said  he,  "  certain 
drugs  in  the  handle,  which  is  hollow,  when  these  are  heated, 
they  will  penetrate  your  majesty's  whole  frame;  leave  off 
then  ;  bathe,  and  retire  to  rest,  and  to-morrow  you  will  find 
yourself  perfectly  cured." 

The  king  followed  the  direction  of  Douban,  and  rose  the 
next  morning  entirely  free  from  his  malady.  The  physician 
was  invested  with  the  most  distinguished  honors ;  the  king 
loaded  him  also  with  riches,  and  the  courtiers  with  caresses; 
be  became  the  declared  favorite ;  and  every  one  who  had  n 
suit  to  prefer  to  the  king,  solicited  the  interest  of  the  physician. 

But  amid  all  this  prosperity,  lurked  the  most  fatal  destruc- 
tion. The  Grecian  king  was  a  very  weak  prince,  easily 
irritated,  and  tyrannical  in  his  disposition.  His  former  favor- 
ites eavied  Douban,  and  seized  everj  opportunity  to  exjiu 


fiNTERTA  fNMENTS.  5H 

distrust  of  him  in  the  royal  breast.  "  He  i&  become,*  said 
they,  u  next  in  dignity  and  power  to  yourself ;  as  he  cural  you 
in  a  manner  so  simple,  may  he  not  also,  by  methods  as  unsus* 
pected,  cut  off  your  majesty ;  who  alone  stand  between  aina 
and  the  throne." 

For  a  long  time  the  Grecian  king  repelled  these  insinua- 
tions. "  Was  I  to  listen  to  you/'  said  he  to  his  courtiers,  "  1 
ahould  be  like  a  certain  man  who  had  a  faithful  parrot,  *ho 
reported  to  him  the  incontinence  of  his  wife  during  his 
absence.  The  wife,  enraged  at  the  tell-tale,  contrived  a 
method  of  destroying  the  credit  of  the  bird,  and  being 
revenged  at  the  same  time.  Accordingly,  when  her  husband 
went  another  journey,  she  caused  a  slave  to  scatter  water  over 
the  cage  all  night,  in  the  manner  of  rain,  while  others  pro- 
duced the  appearance  of  thunder  and  lightning.  The  next 
day,  when  the  husband  returned,  the  parrot  complained  of 
having  been  exposed  all  night  to  the  fury  of  a  continual  storm. 
As  the  master  knew  the  weather  had  been  exceedingly  fine, 
he  hastily  concluded  that  his  bird  was  false,  and  in  resentment 
put  it  to  death  ;  but  the  future  ill  conduct  of  his  wife  too  soon 
proved  to  him  his  parrot's  truth  and  his  own  rashness." 

"  Sir,"  replied  his  vizier,  "  it  is  my  duty  to  be  particularly 
attentive  to  your  safety,  nor  must  I  suffer  you  to  be  led  by 
specious  appearances,  into  real  danger.  The  vizier  of  a  neigh- 
boring king  was  intrusted  with  the  care  of  his  master's  only 
Bon,  and  so  ill  did  he  perform  that  duty,  that  he  suffered  the 
young  prince  to  separate  from  his  train,  in  the  eagerness  of 
the  chase,  till  he  was  left  alone,  and  had  lost  his  way ;  while 
he  rode  about,  he  came  up  10  a  handsome  lady,  who  appeared 
to  be  in  great  distress.  The  prince  was  naturally  compassion- 
ate ;  he  heard  her  tale,  and  at  her  request,  took  hei  upon  his 
horse,  which  he  guided  by  her  direction.  They  came  at 
length  to  the  ruins  of  a  castle  in  a  lonely  place,  where  the 
lady  desired  him  to  alight ;  he  obeyed.  The  lady  entered  the 
ruins,  and  while  he  was  securing  his  horse  he  heard  he/  say 
Ktftty,  Be  glad  my  children  ;  I  have  brought  you  a  han  loom* 


22  ARABIAN    NIGHTS" 

young  man,  very  fat.     Other  voices  immediately  answered 
Mamma,  where  is  he  ?  let  us  eat  him  presently,  for  we  are 
very  hungry. 

"  The  prince  heard  enough  to  convince  him  of  his  danger 
He  perceived  that  the  supposed  distressed  lady  was  really  a 
ogress,  wife  to  one  of  those  savage  demons,  called  ogres* 
who  frequent  remote  places,  and  use  a  thousand  wiles  to 
surprise  and  devour  passengers.  He  began  to  untie  hia 
horse  again  with  all  diligence,  putting  up  all  the  while 
prayers  to  heaven  for  his  deliverance.  The  ogress,  returning 
to  the  door,  never  doubted  but  he  was  still  employed  in  fasten- 
ing his  horse,  and  hearing  him  utter  prayers,  she  also  pre 
tended  to  put  up  ejaculations ;  but  the  prince  was  not  to  be 
deceived  by  this  hypocrisy.  Having  loosened  the  rein,  he 
leaped  upon  the  saddle,  and  was  soon  out  of  the  monster's 
power.  But  although  he  escaped  unhurt,  his  royal  father  was 
so  much  enraged  at  the  danger  he  had  been  in,  that  he  very 
justly  caused  his  careless  vizier  to  be  put  to  death.  I  should 
deserve  the  same  punishment,  if  I  did  not  protest  against  the 
conduct  of  Douban,  who  though  as  specious  as  the  ogress, 
may  be  equally  dangerous." 

The  credulous  Grecian  king  began  at  length  to  "listen  to 
these  insinuations ;  which  the  vizier  observing,  so  inflamed 
his  passions,  that  he  caused  his  benefactor  to  be  seized,  and 
brought  into  his  presence  to  be  put  to  death.  Douban, 
astonished  at  so  fatal  a  denunciation,  solicited  earnestly  for 
mercy,  but  in  vain. 

"  You  see,"  said  the  fisherman  to  the  genie,  "  how  the  king 
treated  his  benefactor.  So  have  you  also  behaved  to  me." 

When  Douban  found  himself  in  the  hands  of  the  execu- 
tioner, he  once  more  applied  fiimself  to  the  king,  requesting 
he  would,  at  least,  allow  him  to  live  till  the  next  day.  "  I 
have,"  said  he  to  the  cruel  prince,  "  among  my  books,  one 
well  worthy  of  your  majesty's  acceptance ;  if,  when  my  head 
is  struck  off,  you  will  open  t  je  book  at  the  sixth  leaf,  and  read 
Ihe  third  line,  my  head  will  answer  any  question  you 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  25 

ask."  The  king,  though  insensible  to  pity  or  t(  gratitude 
was  moved  by  a  frivolous  curiosity  to  defer  the  execution. 

The  following  day,  when  Douban  i\ras  brought  into  the 
royal  presence,  he  renewed  his  supplication  for  life ;  reminded 
the  king  of  his  services,  and  in  the  most  earnest  manner  pro- 
tested his  innocence.  The  unworthy  prince  told  him  plainly, 
that  all  he  could  say  was  in  vain  :  "  Was  it  only,"  continued 
he,  "to  hear  your  head  speak  after  it  is  cut  off,  it  is  mj 
pleasure  you  should  be  put  to  death."  The  physician,  see- 
ing his  fate  inevitable,  submitted.  He  presented  a  large  folio 
to  the  king :  "  Place  my  head,"  said  he,,  "  for  a  moment  on 
the  cover  of  this  book,  and  I  shall  he  in  a  condition  to 
answer  your  questions."  The  executioner  performed  his 
office;  and  the  head  being  placed  as  directed,  the  blood 
staunched,  the  eyes  opened,  and  it  called  upon  the  king  to 
open  the  book. 

The  king  obeyed,  but  finding  the  leaves  stick  together,  he 
put  his  finger  to  his  mouth  and  wetted  it  to  separate  them. 
When  he  came  to  the  sixth  leaf,  he  said,  "  Physician,  there  ia 
nothing  written  here !"  "  Turn  over  leaf  by  leaf,"  said  the 
head,  "  till  you  come  to  the  writing."  The  king  continued  to 
turn  over  the  leaves,  putting  his  finger  continually  to  his 
mouth,  till  the  poison  with  which  each  leaf  was  impregnated 
took  effect.  The  head,  perceiving  that  the  king  had  but  few 
moments  to  livo,  exclaimed,  "Tyrant,  you  are  justly  pun- 
ished ! "  Having  said  this,  its  eyes  closed,  and  it  remained 
without  life.  The  king  also,  in  a  short  time,  fell  down  and 
expired, 

"You  find  genie,"  said  the  fisherman,  "that  though  the 
physician  could  not  preserve  his  life,  he  contrived  to  punish 
his  ungrateful  murderer,  I  am  more  fortunate  in  being  now 
out  of  your  power,  and  having  you  in  mine.  I  am  now  about 
to  return  you  to  the  sea."  "My  good  friend,"  replied  the 
genie,  "  remember,  revenge  is  forbidden ;  do  not  treat  me  as 
Imama  did  At  teca."  "  How  was  that  ?  "  asked  the  fisherman 
*  He  f  replied  the  genie,  "  do  you  think  I  can  tell  storieri  in 


24  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

this  confinement  ?  Let  me  out,  and  I  will  tell  YOU  as  tnanj 
us  you  please."*  "No,"  faid  the  fisherman,  "i  will  not  le! 
you  out ;  on  the  contrary,  I  will  this  moment  cast  you  back 
into  the  sea."  "Hear  me,  I  charge  thee,"  exclaimed  thfl 
genie  •  "  if  thou  wilt  deliver  me,  1  swear,  in  the  most  soluran 
manner,  that  I  will  not  hurt  thee ;  on  the  contrary,  I  will 
tsach  thee  how  to  become  as  rich  as  thou  desirest  to  be." 

Overcome  by  this  promise,  the  fisherman  once  more  opened 
the  vessel ;  and  the  genie,  resuming  his  form,  instantly  kicked 
it  into  the  sea.  The  fisherman  was  alarmed  at  this  action,  but 
Jie  genie  assured  him  he  was  safe.  He  then  led  him  up  a 
mountain,  from  whence  they  descended  to  a  great  pond,  that 
lay  between  four  hills.  "  Cast  in  thy  nets  here,"  said  the 
genie,  "  and  carry  the  fish  thou  shalt  take  to  the  sultan,  who 
will  liberally  reward  thee ;  only  beware  not  to  throw  in  thy 
nets  more  than  once  a  day,  or  thou  wilt  repent  it."  Having 
said  this,  the  genie  disappeared. 

i'he  fisherman  immediately  threw  in  his  nets ;  but  though 
the  pond  seemed  to  abound  with  fish,  he  caught  only  four. 
He  was  much  pleased  to  find  them  unusually  beautiful,  and 
each  of  a  different  color ;  one  being  white,  one  red,  one  blue, 
ttiid  one  yellow.  Having  much  admired  them,  he  set  off  for 
the  palace,  to  present  them  to  the  sultan.  The  singulai 
beauty  of  the  fish  made  them  very  acceptable;  the  liberal 
prince  rewarded  the  fisherman  with  four  hundred  pieces  of 
gold,  and  ordered  them  to  be  served  as  a  part  of  the  enter- 
tainment of  the  day. 

But  an  amazing  prodigy  disappointed  the  sultan.  As  the 
cook  was  frying  the  fish,  on  turning  them,  the  wall  of  the 
kitchen  opened,  and  a  beautiful  young  lady  entered,  holding  a 
rod  of  myrtle  in  her  hand !  and  advancing  to  the  pan,  she 
gtrusk  one  of  the  fish,  saying,  "  Fish,  fish,  are  ye  in  your 
duty  ? "  when  the  four  fish  lifting  up  their  heads  together, 
§a  d,  "  Yes,  yes,  if  you  reckon,  we  reckon ;  if  you  fly, 
we  overcome,  and  are  content."  As  soon  as  they  had  thui 
looken,  the  lady  overturned  the  frying-pan,  and  passed  agaii 


ENTERTAINMENT*.  26 

llmmgh  the  wall,  which  closed  immediately,  and  became  a* 
before. 

The  cook  was  exceedingly  terrified ;  but  recovering  herself^ 
and  picking  up  the  fish,  she  had  the  misfortune  to  find  that 
they  were  burnt  to  a  cinder,  and  utterly  unfit  to  be  served  at 
the  royal  table.  She  was  under  the  necessity  of  relating  the 
phenomenon  to  the  vizier.  That  minister  invented  an  excuse, 
which  satisfied  the  sultan ;  but  being  very  desirous  of  seeing 
so  Strange  a  scene,  he  ordered  the  fisherman  to  provide  him 
four  other  fish,  of  the  same  sort,  as  soon  as  possible. 

The  day  following  the  fisherman  obeyed  the  viziers  orders, 
and  to  his  great  joy  received  another  lour  hundred  pieces  of 
gold.  The  vizier  shut  himself  up  wi«.h  the  cook,  who  placed 
the  fish  on  the  fire,  and  on  turning  them,  when  fried  on  one 
sicie,  the  wall  again  opened,  the  lady  appeared,  the  sama 
dialogue  passed  between  her  and  the  nsh  ;  when,  having  over- 
turned the  pan,  she  retired,  aad  the  wall  closed  as  on  the 
preceding  day. 

The  vizier  astonished  beyond  measuie  at  so  great  a  prodigy, 
failed  not  to  relate  the  matter  to  the  sultao.  That  prince  was 
equally  surprised,  and  impatient  to  see  so  strange  a  scene  him- 
self. The  fisherman  provided  four  more  Ash  the  following  day, 
and  again  received  a  sum  which  to  him  was  quite  a  treasure. 
The  sultan,  attended  by  his  vizier,  retired  into  his  closet ;  the 
fish  were  placed  on  the  fire,  and  on  turning  them  the  wall 
opened;  but  instead  of  the  young  lady,  there  came  out  a 
gigantic  black,  in  the  habit  of  a  slave,  who  advanced  with  an 
air  of  anger  to  the  pan,  and  touching  ore  of  the  fish,  said,  in  a 
terrible  voice,  "  Fish,  are  ye  in  your  duty  r  *  At  these  words, 
the  fish  raised  up  their  heads,  and  answered,  "  Yes,  yes,  we 
we ;  if  you  reckon,  we  reckon  ;  if  you  pay  your  debts,  we 
pay  ours ;  if  you  fly,  we  overcome,  and  are  content."  The 
black  then  threw  the  pan  into  the  middle  of  the  closet,  and 
the  fish  were  reduced  to  coal.  Having  done  this  he  retired 
Sercely,  and  the  wall  shut,  and  remained  as  before. 

When  the  sultan  recovered  from  his  astonishment,  he  sent 
3 


26  ARABIAN    NIGHTs* 

for  the  fisherman,  to  know  where  he  caught  thtse  extraordi 
nary  fish  ;  and  finding  it  was  near  the  city,  he  ordered  hifc 
usual  retinue,  and  set  off  immediately.  On  ascending  the 
mountain,  the  pond  and  an  immense  plain  beyond  it  presented 
themselves,  which  no  one  remembered  to  have  seen  before. 
The  sultan  ordered  his  court  to  encamp  by  the  side  of  the 
pond,  and  retired  to  his  pavilion  with  his  vizier.  To  him  the 
sultan  declared  his  resolution  of  exploring,  alone,  this  net* 
discovered  plain,  in  hopes  of  finding  out  the  cause  of  so  many 
wonderful  events.  He  commanded  the  vizier  to  detain  hia 
attendants  on  that  spot,  and  to  excuse  to  them  his  not  appear- 
ing, under  the  pretence  of  his  being  indisposed. 

At  the  dawn  of  the  morning,  the  sultan  set  forward,  and  by 
sunrise,  he  saw  before  him  a  great  building,  which  proved  tc 
be  a  magnificent  palace  of  black  marble.  As  the  gates  were 
opened,  the  prince  entered ;  but  met  not  any  living  creature. 
He  wandered  through  many  spacious  apartments,  all  furnished 
in  the  most  splendid  manner,  and  kept  in  the  most  exact 
order.  He  called  out  aloud,  but  no  one  answered.  After 
walking  about  a  long  time,  he  grew  weary;  and  sitting 
down,  was  beginning  to  reflect  on  the  wonders  which  had 
happened,  when  he  was  interrupted  by  the  voice  of  one  com 
plaining.  He  listened  attentively  ;  and  following  the  sound 
he  came  to  a  magnificent  hall,  at  the  upper  end  of  which,  on  a 
throne  of  burnished  gold,  sat  a  handsome  young  man,  richly 
faibited  in  regal  attire,  but  oppressed  with  the  deepest  melan- 
choly. As  the  sultan  drew  near  he  saluted  him.  The  young 
prince  returned  the  salute,  by  bowing  his  head :  "  I  ought  to 
rise,  sir,"  said  he  to  the  sultan,  "  to  receive  you  ;  but  alas !  I  can 
but  too  well  apologize  for  continuing  in  this  posture."  Saying 
this,  he  drew  aside  Li?  robe,  and  discovered  to  the  sultan,  that 
he  was  only  a  man  from  the  head  to  the  girdle,  and  that  the 
other  part  of  his  body  was  black  marble. 

"  What  you  show  me,"  said  the  sultan,  "  fills  me  will  grief 
and  horror.  I  conjure  you,  most  unfortunate  prince,  to  relate 
tc  me  by  what  accident  YOU  have  been  reduced  to 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  27 

present  situation  I  am  persuaded  your  story  is  socaeLcm 
connected  with  certain  extraordinary  events,  which  hava 
occurred  to  me  lately.  Perhaps  fortune  has  led  me  hithe? 
to  be  of  service  to  you." 

"Alas ! "  replied  the  young  man, %< I  have  no  hope  of  relief; 
vet,  though  I  must  renew  my  grief  by  repeating  my  story, 
your  appearance,  as  well  as  your  offers  of  assistance,  entftta 
you  to  compliance." 

The  History  of  the  King  of  the  Black  Isles. 

"  I  SUCCEEDED  my  father  to  the  throne  of  the  Black  Isles, 

few  years  ago,  and  invited  to  share  it  with  me  a  young  lady 
whom  I  had  loved  from  my  earliest  infancy.  She  was  my 
cousin ;  we  were  bred  up  together ;  and  I  had  every  reason 
to  suppose  I  was  equally  dear  to  her.  After  a  short  time 
1  found  a  visible  coolness  in  the  queen's  behavior,  which 
afflicted  me  the  more,  as  it  seemed  to  increase  daily,  and  I 
could  no  way  account  for  it. 

"  It  chanced,  as  I  was  reposing  on  a  sofa,  two  of  her  attend- 
ants came  into  the  room,  and  supposing  me  asleep,  one  of  them 
said  to  the  other, '  Is  not  the  queen  much  to  blame  to  treat 
this  amiable  prince  so  ill  ?  I  wonder  he  does  not  discover  her 
enormities/  *  You  do  not  know  then,'  replied  the  other,  *  that 
every  evening  she  mixes  in  his  drink  the  juice  of  a  certain 
herb,  which  causes  him  to  sleep,  till  by  applying  another  herb 
to  his  nose  she  awakens  him.  *T  is  by  this  means  she  escapes 
detection/ 

"Though  I  was  much  alarmed  at  this  discourse,  I  still 
appeared  to  sleep.  In  the  evening  I  supped  with  the  queen 
but  when  she  presented  me,  before  we  retired,  with  a  cup,  1 
only  pretended  to  drink,  and  holding  it  to  my  mouth  some 
time,  I  returned  it  to  her  untasted.  We  withdrew  to  our 
chamber,  where  as  soon  as  I  laid  down  on  the  bed,  I  pro- 
tended to  fall  into  a  deep  sleep.  The  queen  immediately 
arose,  dressed  herself,  and  having  said  to  me,  *  Sleep,  and 
you  never  awaks  again ! '  went  out  of  the  chamber 


26  ARABIAN 

"I  was  ready  to  follow  her  in  an  instant.  She;  went  to  * 
little  grove  adjoining  to  the  garden,  where  a  man  was  waiting 
for  her.  I  reached  the  grove  unobserved,  and  concealed  my- 
self behind  a  tree ;  I  listened  to  their  conversation,  and  found 
thiU  she  seemed  to  lavish  her  fondness  on  one  who  heard  her 
very  coolly.  Enraged  that  she  should  treat  me  so  unworthily 
[  resolved  to  be  revenged  on  her  minion.  Accordingly,  when 
they  had  passed  me,  I  gave  him  a  violent  blow  on  tha  neck 
with  my  scimitar,  which  brought  him  to  the  ground.  I  sup- 
posed he  was  slain;  and  not  caring  to  come  to  extremities 
mth  the  queen,  I  retired  in  haste,  without  discovering  myself, 
and  returned  immediately  to  my  chamber.  In  the  morning  1 
found  my  wife  lying  by  me  as  usual ;  but  she  either  was,  or 
pretended  to  be,  in  a  profound  sleep,  so  that  I  arose,  and  went 
to  council  without  having  spoken  to  her. 

"  At  dinner  time  she  presented  herself  to  me,  clad  in  mourn- 
ing, and  expressed  the  utmost  affliction.  *  Alas,  sir,'  said  she, 
*  I  am  oppressed  with  the  most  cruel  misfortunes.  I  have  just 
heard  of  the  death  of  my  royal  mother  ;  and  that  the  king, 
my  father,  has  lost  a  battle,  in  which  he  and  one  of  my 
brothers  have  fallen.  Suffer  me  to  retire  for  a  twelvemonth 
to  the  palace  of  tears,  that  I  may  pay  a  proper  tribute  to  their 
memory.' 

"  I  was  not  sorry  she  disguised  thus  the  true  cause  of  her 
grief;  and  readily  gave  her  the  permission  she  desired.  She 
withdrew  accordingly  to  that  palace ;  and  thither  I  found  out 
she  conveyed  her  gallant.  The  wound  I  had  given  him  would 
have  been  mortal,  had  she  not  preserved  him  by  a  drink, 
whuh  she  prepared  and  administered  to  him  herself,  every 
ita  f.  But  though  she  was  able  by  this  means  to  keep  him 
nhve,  yet  she  could  neither  cure  him,  nor  restore  his  faculties; 
ho,  lives  indeed,  but  he  can  neither  walk,  move,  nor  speak ;  hi* 
f.res  alone  give  signs  of  existence,  but  not  of  sensibility. 

"  I  hoped  tl  at  time  would  have  removed  the  queen's  sorrow 
I  sufiered  her,  therefore,  to  continue  this  course  without  inter 
bui  when,  at  the  end  of  two  years,  I  found  that  )»ej 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  2* 

criminal  nJfhiction  was  still  cherished,  I  fatally  resolved  to  ta 
her  know  I  was  not  unacquainted  with  the  real  source  of  it 
I  concealed  myself  behind  the  tomb,  which  she  had  erected 
for  her  gallant,  and  became  a  witness  of  her  ungovernable 
folly.  The  fondness  she  lavished  on  him  was  excessive  ;  nor 
would  it  have  been  excusable,  had  he  been  in  perfect  health. 
For  this  adored  lover,  this  minion,  thus  doated  on,  was  a  black 
Indian ;  and,  as  I  was  well  informed,  as  disgusting  in  hig 
manners  as  in  his  person.  *  Alas ! '  exclaimed  she,  '  't  is  now 
two  years  since  you  have  spoken  to  me  ;  you  return  no  answer 
to  the  many  proofs  of  love  I  give  you.  Is  it  from  the  effect 
of  your  barbarous  wound,  or  from  contempt  that  you  are  thus 
silent?  O  tomb,  have  you  swallowed  up  the  affection  he  had 
for  me  P  Enraged  at  these  lamentations,  I  discover  xl  myself 
all  at  once,  and  reproached  her  with  the  utmost  severity. 
She  heard  me  at  first  in  silence  and  confusion  ;  but  when  1  not 
only  declared  myself  the  punisher  of  her  gallant,  but  drew 
my  scimitar  to  take  away  the  remains  of  his  life,  her  shamr 
turned  to  rage ;  she  instantly  began  to  repeat  enchantments 
and  pronouncing  certain  words  I  did  not  understand,  I  became 
as  you  see  me,  half  marble,  half  man. 

"  Nor  did  I  alone  fall  a  sacrifice  to  the  revenge  of  this 
wicked  woman.  By  the  force  of  her  incantations,  she  trans- 
formed my  whole  territory.  The  four  islands  which  I  reigned 
over,  are  become  the  four  hills  you  passed ;  my  capital  city  ia 
changed  to  a  pond ;  and  my  people  are  turned  into  fishes,  of 
various  colors :  the  Mussulmen  being  white ;  the  Persians, 
who  adore  fire,  red ;  the  Christians,  blue ;  and  the  Jews, 
yellow.  This  I  learned  from  her  rage  and  reproaches ;  for 
§he  is  not  satisfied  with  the  evils  I  now  suffer,  but  every  day 
ahe  comes  here,  and  gratifies  her  malice  by  invectives,  and 
even  by  olows,  which  I  have  no  power  to  resist." 

The  young  king  having  finished  his  story,  became  over- 
powered with  grief.  The  sultan  did  his  utmost  to  console 
him.  In  answer  to  the  farther  inquiries  of  his  visitor,  the 
king  informed  him  that  the  palace  of  tears  was  adjoining  t« 
3* 


*  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

the  hall  they  were  in ;  that  the  enchantress  risited  the  pala* 
every  morning  at  break  of  day,  when  she  first  exercised  hei 
cruelty  on  him,  and  then  attended  her  gallant,  with  the  drinfc 
which  preserved  him  from  dying,  and  bewailed  over  him  his 
helpless  condition. 

The  sultan  having  revolved  these  matters  in  his  mind,  took 
leave  of  the  unhappy  king,  when  he  found  he  was  a  little 
composed,  without  acquainting  him  with  his  intention,  lest  a 
disappointment  should  aggravate  his  affliction.  He  found  out 
the  palace  of  tears,  and  as  soon  as  he  came  to  the  bed  where 
the  black  lay,  he  put  him  to  death,  and  dragging  his  body  into 
the  court  of  the  palace,  threw  it  into  a  well !  He  then  laid 
aside  his  upper  garment,  and  having  blackened  his  hands,  face, 
and  necV,  and  taken  his  scimitar  with  him,  he  lay  down  on 
the  1-  dd  in  the  same  posture  in  which  he  had  found  the  black. 

He  passed  the  night  without  sleeping,  his  whole  thoughts 
being  occupied  with  the  affair  he  was  engaged  in.  At  day- 
break the  loud  lamentations  of  the  unfortunate  king,  and  the 
severe  blows  he  heard  inflicted  on  him,  gave  him  notice  that 
the  wicked  enchantress  was  at  hand.  The  poor  prince  filled 
the  palace  with  his  outcries,  and  in  vain  besought  her,  in  the 
most  affecting  manner,  to  have  pity  on  him.  Having  gratified 
her  cruelty,  she  left  him ;  and  entering  the  palace  of  tears 
began,  in  her  turn,  to  use  the  language  of  affliction.  "  Alas  !  * 
exclaimed  she,  as  she  approached  the  bed  on  which  she  sup- 
posed her  lover  lay  ;  "  can  I  ever  sufficiently  revenge  the 
miseries  I  suffer  ?  To  whose  jealousy  and  cruelty  do  I  owe 
the  wretched  situation  of  my  adored  lover  ?  Alas !  my  life, 
my  love,"  continued  she,  addressing  herself,  as  she  supposed, 
to  the  black,  "  will  you  never  be  delivered  from  this  state  of 
insensibility  and  silence  ?  Will  you  no  more  be  able  to  tell 
me  how  much  you  love  me  ?  " 

The  sultan  affected  to  awaken  slowly,  as  from  a  deep  sleep. 
At  last,  heaving  a  sigh,  and  imitating  the  accent  of  the  blacks, 
he  said,  "  There  is  no  force,  or  power,  but  in  God  alone,  who 
tfi  almighty."  The  enchantress,  on  hearing  these  words,  gavt 


ENTERTAINMENTS  til 

vr.  excessive  sh>ut  for  joy;  when  the  sultan,  turning  towards 
her,  said,  "  Unhappy  queen !  ii  thou  wouldest  have  my 
recovery  complete,  restore  thy  husband,  and  cease  to  treat 
him  with  indignity."  The  fond  enchantress  flew  to  the  hall, 
and  taking  a  cup  of  water,  pronounced  certain  words  over  it, 
which  caused  it  to  boil,  then  throwing  it  on  the  young  king,, 
she  said,  "  If  thou  art  in  thy  present  state  by  the  force  of  my 
enchantments,  resume  thy  natural  powers."  On  her  uttering 
these  words,  the  prince  instantly  found  himself  restored  ;  the 
joy  he  felt  was  scarcely  allayed  by  the  insolence  of  his  enemy, 
who  directed  him,  in  the  haughtiest  manner,  to  leave  the 
palace  immediately,  and  be  seen  there  no  more  on  pain  of  death. 

The  enchantress  returned  with  impatience  to  her  supposed 
lover,  and  was  delighted  to  find  him  appear  much  better.  As 
she  was  hastening  towards  him,  the  sultan  cried  out,  "  Stop, 
wretched  lady ;  if  thou  approachest  nearer  to  me,  I  shall 
relapse  into  my  former  state  of  insensibility;  my  recovery 
cannot  be  perfect  until  thou  hast  reversed  all  thy  enchant- 
ments, which  have  produced  such  fatal  consequences  to  thy 
Husband's  subjects  and  territory." 

The  enchantress,  elated  with  joy  and  hope,  immediately 
withdrew,  and  in  a  few  minutes  dissolved  all  her  spells 
and  restored  everything  to  its  former  condition.  The  fishes 
became  men;  the  houses  and  shops  were  again  filled  with 
their  inhabitants  ;  and  the  sultan's  retinae  were  astonished  to 
find  themselves  in  the  middle  of  a  large  and  populous  city. 

The  w;<*.ked  magician  hastened  back  to  the  palace  of  tears 
and  was  transported  to  see  her  supposed  lover  sitting  on  the 
bed.  Fearing,  however,  to  approach  him  too  hastily,  sha 
restrained  herself,  and  said,  "  I  have  in  all  things  obeyed  you \ 
I  have  restored  to  its  first  state  everything  that  I  had  trans* 
formed."  "  'T  is  well,"  replied  the  sultan,  rising  up,  and  going 
towards  her ;  "  come  now,  and  receive  the  reward  thou  hast 
deserved."  As  she  flew  to  meet  him,  he,  with  one  blow  of 
his  scimitar,  put  an  end  to  her  life.  At  once  punLhing  be! 
fast  crimes,  and  preventing  her  repeating  them. 


52  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

The  joy  of  the  king  and  people  of  the  Black  Isles,  on  then 
deliverance,  was  extreme.  The  sultan  heartily  congratulated 
the  king,  inviting  him  at  the  same  time  to  pass  a  few  days  in 
his  capital,  which  they  might  reach  in  a  few  hours'  ride.  Bui 
the  king  of  the  isles  undeceived  him.  "  Though,"  said  he, 
"  you  came  hither  in  that  time,  yet,  now  the  enchantment  is 
ended,  you  will  find  it  several  months'  journey  to  the  confines 
of  your  dominions.  I  will,  however,  readily  attend  you,  and 
ever  acknowledge  my  obligations  to  you  to  the  last  moment 
ef  my  life." 

Accordingly,  after  a  few  days'  repose,  the  young  king  added 
an  hundred  camels,  laden  with  inestimable  riches,  to  the 
retinue  of  the  sultan ;  and  joining  the  same  with  many  of  hia 
nobles,  he  conducted  that  prince  to  his  capital,  where  they 
were  received  by  the  faithful  inhabitants,  with  the  loudest 
acclamations. 

Nor  was  the  fisherman  forgot.  As  he  was  the  cause  of 
the  discovery,  the  sultan  gave  him  a  plentiful  estate,  whicb 
abundantly  gratified  his  utmost  wishes. 

The  Story  of  the  Three  Calendars,  Sons  of  Kings,  and  of 
the  Five  Ladies  of  Bagdad. 

IN  the  reign  of  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid,  there  was  h* 
Bagdad,  a  porter,  who  was  remarkable  for  his  wit  and  good 
humor.  One  day,  as  he  was  waiting  for  employment,  a  young 
and  handsome  lady  called  to  him.  The  porter  was  so  struck 
with  her  appearance  and  affability,  that  he  followed  her  with 
joy,  and  exclaimed,  "  O  happy  day !  a  day  of  good  luck  !  '* 

The  lady  knocked  at  a  gate,  and  a  Christian,  of  venerable 
Appearance,  opened  it.  She  put  money  into  his  hand,  without 
f  peaking  a  word ;  when  he,  knowing  what  she  wanted,  broughl 
her  a  large  bottle  of  wine,  which  the  porter  put  into  his 
basket.  From  thence  they  proceeded  to  the  different  dealers 
in  provisions,  fruits,  and  perfumes,  till  the  basket  was  quite 
Meantime,  the  porter,  by  his  ready  wit  and  cheerful 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  & 

ffcedience,  ing*  vitiated  himself  very  much  into  the  lady's  favor 
Having  finished  their  marketing,  they  arrived  at  a  handsom" 
house,  where  the  lady,  whose  name  was  Amin*,  caused  the 
porter  to  take  the  provisions  from  his  basket,  for  the  iaspec- 
*ion  of  her  sisters,  Zobeide  and  Saf.',. 

The  porter,  having  delivered  his  load,  was  handsomely  paid , 
but  instead  of  retiring,  as  he  ought  to  have  done,  he  continued 
lingering  in  the  presence  of  the  ladies.  Zobeide  suppoeirg 
him  not  satisfied  with  his  pay,  offered  to  give  him  more.  "  ] 
am  overpaid  already,  madam,"  replied  he,  uand  am  sensible  1 
ought  n^t  to  have  stayed  here  so  long.  But,  permit  me  to  say, 
I  am  surprised  to  see  no  man  in  company  with  such  beautiful 
ladies ;  you  know  the  company  of  women  without  men  is  as 
dull  as  the  company  of  men  without  women.  Besides,  the 
Bagdad  proverb  is  allowed  to  be  a  good  one,  which  .says  : 
'  One  is  never  well  at  table,  except  there  be  four  i*  com 
pany,'  " 

The  ladies  laughed  heartily  at  this  discourse  of  the  porter, 
who,  encouraged  by  their  good  humor,  pressed  his  suit  in  such 
sprightly  terms,  as  convinced  them  that  his  education  had  been 
above  his  condition.  Notwithstanding  which,  Zobeide,  recover 
ing  her  serious  air,  was  about  to  reprimand  his  presumption, 
when  Amine  interfered,  and  besought  her  sisters  to  let  him 
stay,  and  share  their  entertainment.  The  porter  could  not 
restrain  his  joy  on  their  consenting ;  he  would  have  restored 
the  money  he  had  received,  but  the  grave  Zobeide  ordered 
him  to  keep  it :  "  That  which  we  have  once  given,"  said  she, 
*  to  reward  those  who  have  served  us,  we  never  take  again." 

They  sat  down  to  their  repast  together.  After  they  had  eaten 
e,  little,  Amine  took  a  cup,  filled  out  wine,  and  drank  first  her- 
self, according  to  the  custom  of  the  Arabians ;  she  then  filled 
the  cup  for  her  sisters,  and  last  for  the  porter,  who,  as  he 
received  it,  kissed  her  hand,  and  before  he  drank,  sung  a  song 
to  this  purpose :  "  That  as  the  wind  brirgs  along  with  it  the 
sweet  scent  of  the  perfumed  places  through  which  it  passes 
*o  the  wine  he  was  going  to  drink,  coming  fiom  her  fair  hand 


*4  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

received  a  more  exquisite  taste  than  what  it  had  of  itself 
This  song  pleased  the  ladies  highly,  and  the  time  they  W«M* 
at  dinner  passed  away  very  pleasantly ;  after  which,  Sati» 
reminded  the   porter   it  was   time  for   him   to   depart.     H 
received  this  hint  with  visible  reluctance,  and  Amine  one* 
more  became  his  advocate  with  her  sisters ;  who,  to  oblige 
her,  readily  agreed  he  should  continue  till  evening. 

Zobeide,  having  signified  their  consent,  turned  to  the  portei 
tnd  said,  "  One  condition  you  must  carefully  observe ;  that 
whatsoever  we  do  in  your  presence,  you  take  heed  not  to 
inquire  the  reason  of,  nor  presume  to  dive  into  the  motive  of 
our  actions.  —  That  you  may  perceive  this  is  an  invariable 
rule  with  us,  rise  up,  and  read  what  is  written  over  our  gate, 
and  then  you  may  stay."  The  porter,  having  read  there  this 
sentence  in  golden  letters,  "HE  WHO  SPEAKS  OF  THINGS 

THAT  DO  NOT  CONCERN  HIM,  SHALL  HEAR  OF  THING? 

THAT  WILL  NOT  PLEASE  HIM,"  replied,  "  I  give  you  my  oath, 
ladies,  that  you  shall  never  hear  me  speak  of  anything  which 
does  not  concern  me,  or  wherein  you  have  any  concern." 

During  supper  they  sang,  and  repeated  verses.  The  ladies 
took  pleasure  in  fuddling  the  porter,  while  they  invited  him  to 
drink  their  healths ;  mirth  and  good  humor  abounded,  when 
they  were  interrupted  by  a  loud  knocking  at  gate. 

Satie  withdrew  to  inquire  the  cause,  and  presently  return 
ing,  acquainted  her  sisters  that  three  calendars  were  at  the 
gate,  who  earnestly  solicited  to  be  received  into  the  house,  or 
even  admitted  within  the  porch,  for  one  night,  being  all 
Btrangers,  just  arrived  at  agdad  ;  Safie  added  that  they  were 
your  fe,  andsome,  and  of  good  address  ;  though  each  of  them 
was  deprived  of  his  right  eye.  Zobeide  and  Amine,  finding 
Safie  was  desirous  they  should  be  entertained,  desired  her  tc 
Introduce  them ;  but  to  be  very  explicit  in  telling  them  tka 
terms  on  which  they  were  admitted. 

Safie  accordingly  led  them  in,  after  having  shown  them  the 
writing  over  the  gat^,  and  laid  the  same  injunctions  on  them 
tLat  the  porter  had  received,  to  which  they  *aoh  promised 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  35 

•xact  obedience.  Having  paid  their  respects  to  the  ladies, 
ene  »f  them  cast  his  eye  upon  *he  porter,  who  was  clad  mucl 
like  those  calendars  who  neither  shave  their  beards  nor  eye- 
brows, and  exclaimed,  "  See,  we  have  got  one  of  our  revolted 
Arabian  brethren." 

The  porter,  who  was  half  asleep,  and  warm  with  wine,  was 
affronted  at  these  words ;  and  with  a  fierce  look,  answered 
•Sit  you  down,  and  do  not  meddle  with  what  does  not  concern 
you  ;  have  you  not  read  the  inscription  over  the  gate  ?  do  not 
pretend  to  make  people  live  after  your  fashion,  but  follow 
ours."  The  calendar  apologized  to  the  captious  porter,  and 
the  ladies  interposing,  pacified  him.  After  the  strangers  had 
received  suitable  refreshment,  various  instruments  of  music 
were  introduced ;  the  ladies  each  took  one,  the  calendars  did 
the  same,  and  began  a  concert  of  music,  which  was  interrupted 
by  another  loud  knocking. 

The  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid  was  accustomed  to  walk 
abroad  in  disguise  very  often  by  night,  accompanied  by  Giafar, 
bis  grand  vizier,  and  Mesrour,  chief  of  the  eunuchs,  to  inspect 
into  the  order  of  the  city,  and  see  that  the  duty  of  the  magis- 
trates was  properly  executed.  Passing  by  the  palace  of  tht 
ladies,  he  heard  the  sound  of  music  and  jollity  ;  and  chose  tx> 
inquiro  into  the  reason  of  it.  The  vizier  represented  to  him 
that  it  was  not  yet  an  unlawful  hour,  and  that  by  disturbing 
their  mirth,  in  that  disguise,  he  would  probably  expose  himseli 
to  insult ;  but  the  impatient  caliph  put  an  end  to  his  remon- 
strances, by  ordering  him  to  knock  loudly  at  the  gate.  On 
Safie  appearing  Giafar  represented  to  her  that  they  were 
Maussol  merchants,  strangers  in  Bagdad,  who  having  rambled 
A  considerable  way  from  their  khan  (or  inn)  were  at  a  loss  to 
find  it*  they  therefore  besought  from  their  hospitality  the 
favor  of  passing  the  night  under  their  protection. 

Th3  ladies,  having  already  admitted  the  calendars,  made 
!!O  hesitation  to  receive  also  these  pretended  merchants.  Th* 
customary  caution  of  the  family  was  given  to  them,  which  they 
promised  to  observe  $  the  diversions  were  resumed ;  the  oJ 


56  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

endars  arose  and  danced  after  their  manner,  and  every  one 
endeavored  to  contribute  to  the  pleasure  of  the  company. 

After  some  time,  Zobeide  arose  and  taking  Amine  by  the 
hand,  said,  with  a  sigh,  "  Sister,  it  grows  late  ;  it  is  time  foi 
us  to  proceed  to  what  we  are  wont  to  do.  The^  company  are 
properly  cautioned,  therefore  their  presence  need  not  delay  a 
business  which  must  not  be  dispensed  with." 

Amine  withdrew,  and  returned  immediately,  leading  twu 
black  bitches,  which  appeared  to  have  been  severely  heatf  ^. 
She  delivered  the  chain  of  one  to  the  porter,  and  led  the  othei 
into  the  middle  of  the  room.  Zobeide  appeared  much  dis- 
tressed ;  but  receiving  the  bitch  from  her  sister,  she  said, 
*  Alas !  we  must  perform  our  duty  ! "  The  bitch  at  the  same 
time  began  to  cry,  and  holding  up  her  head,  in  an  entreating 
manner,  to  supplicate  compassion.  Zobeide,  notwithstanding, 
having  received  rods,  disregarded  her  cries,  and  whipped  her 
for  a  long  time,  with  great  severity  ;  after  which  she  flung 
away  the  rods  with  indignation,  raised  up  the  streaming 
animal  by  the  paws,  wept  over  her,  and  having  wiped  the 
tears  from  the  eyes  of  the  bitch,  she  kissed  her  and  delivered 
ner  to  Amine,  who  led  her  away.  She  then  received  the 
other  bitch  from  the  porter,  and  treated  her  in  the  same 
manner ;  discovered  the  same  reluctance,  the  same  severity, 
the  same  sympathy,  and  dismissed  her  with  equal  marks  of 
affection. 

As  soon  as  Zobeide  had  recovered  from  her  fatigue,  Aminc 
took  a  lute  and  played  a  plaintive  tune,  which  she  accom- 
panied with  her  voice.  Having  played  and  sung  for  some- 
time, she  became  transported  with  her  own  melody,  and  hei 
powers  failing  her,  she  fainted  away.  Zobeide  and  Safie  fle\v 
to  her  assistance,  and  endeavored  to  recover  her.  But  the  fit 
net  yielding  to  common  methods,  they  were  obliged,  for  air 
to  lay  bare  her  bosom,  which  appeared  bruised,  and  so  full  of 
icars  as  to  shock  the  beholders. 

When  the  caliph  was  first  introduced  he  was  struck  witk 
the  beauty  and  elegant  manners  of  the  ladies:  the  singula. 


flNTERTAINMENTS.  87 

appoarance  of  the  calendars,  all  young  men  of  polito  address, 
and  all  blind  of  the  right  eye,  had  exceedingly  engaged  his 
atteu  tion.  He  was  astonished  at  the  conduct  of  Zobeide,  in 
BO  severely  whipping  the  two  bitches,  and  afterwards  crying 
with  them  •  wiping  away  their  tears,  and  kissing  them,  though 
§uch  animals  are  considered  by  the  Mussulman  religion  as 
unclean ;  and  the  sight  of  Amine's  bosom  excited  his  highest 
indignation  against  the  person  who  had  so  cruelly  abused  her 
Yet  he  still  suffered  himself  to  be  restrained  by  the  conditions 
imposed  on  him  and  his  companions.  While  he  was  medi- 
tating on  these  extraordinary  events,  he  overheard  the  calen- 
dars expressing  to  each  other  their  wonder  also. 

The  caliph  had  not  doubted  before  but  the  calendars  were 
part  of  the  family ;  but  when  he  found  that  they  wrere  stran- 
gers, and  were  equally  astonished  at  what  had  passed,  he 
entered  into  conversation  with  them.  Zobeide  and  Safie  still 
continuing  engaged  in  the  care  of  Amine,  the  caliph  beckoned 
the  porter,  expecting  to  receive  information  from  him  ;  as  he 
was  also  unacquainted  with  these  matters,  the  prince  proposed 
that  they  should  all  throw  aside  the  law  which  had  been 
imposed  upon  them,  and  jointly  request  the  ladies  to  explain 
these  mysteries.  The  calendars  assented  to  the  proposal,  but 
each  declined  to  ask  the  question.  At  last  they  all  agreed  in 
requiring  the  porter  to  do  it.  While  they  were  conversing  on 
this  subject,  Amine  recovered ;  and  Zobeide,  who  had  heard 
them  speak  with  much  earnestness,  drew  near  and  inquired 
the  cause  of  their  dispute ;  to  which  the  porter  bluntly 
answered,  "  Madam,  these  gentlemen  desire  you  will  acquaint 
them  why  you  wept  over  your  two  bitches,  after  you  had 
whipped  them?  and  how  that  lady's  bosom,  who  fainted 
lately,  became  so  full  of  scars  ?  " 

Zobeide,  turning  to  the  caliph  and  the  rest  of  the  company 
with  an  air  of  indignation  asked  if  they  had  ordered  the 
porter  to  make  that  request.  On  their  acknowledging  thai 
they  had,  she  said,  "  Before  we  gave  you  the  protection  of  out 
house,  you  were  each  separately  cautioned,  not  10  speak  of 
4 


W  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

tilings  which  did  not  concern  you,  lest  you  should  hear  of  thai 
which  would  not  please  you  ;  take  therefore  the  just  punish- 
ment of  your  impertinence  and  ingratitude."  As  she  spoke^ 
she  gave  three  hard  knocks  with  her  foot,  and  clapping  hei 
Lands  as  often,  cried,  "  Come  quick."  A  door  immediately 
flew  open,  and  seven  strong  slaves  with  scimitars  in  their 
hands,  rushed  in.  Every  one  seized  a  man,  threw  him  on 
the  ground,  and  prepared  to  cut  off  his  head.  The  frightened 
porter  exclaimed  aloud,  "  For  heaven's  sake  do  not  punish  me 
for  the  crimes  of  others  !  I  am  innocent ;  they  are  to  blame  ; 
alas ! "  continued  he,  crying,  "  how  happy  were  we  before 
these  blind  calendars  came ;  they  are  the  cause  of  this  mis- 
fortune ;  there  is  no  town  in  the  world  but  falls  to  ruin, 
wherever  these  inauspicious  fellows  come  ! " 

The  caliph,  alarmed  at  his  situation,  was  about  to  discover 
himself,  when  Zobeide,  who  notwithstanding  her  anger,  could 
scarce  refrain  from  laughing  aloud  at  the  lamentation  of  the 
porter,  thus  addressed  herself  to  them  all :  "  Your  unworthy 
conduct  'convinces  me  that  you  are  common  fellows  of  no 
credit  in  your  own  countries.  If,  however,  you  have  anything 
to  say  before  you  pay  the  penalty  of  your  folly,  we  will  hear 
you."  At  these  words,  one  of  the  calendars  lifted  up  his 
Lead,  and  declared  that  he  and  his  brother  calendars  were 
princes,  and  had  passed  through  such  wonderful  adventures, 
that,  were  they  told,  would  recommend  them  to  her  pity  and 
forgiveness. 

Zobeide,  having  consulted  with  her  sisters,  said,  "  Relate 
then,  those  events  which  you  speak  of;  if  they  are  indeed 
singular,  they  may  perhaps  soften  our  resentment  The 
slaves  then  suffered  them  to  rise,  and  the  calendar  who  had 
thus  far  prevailed  with  the  affronted  lady  t:  suspend  their 
resentment,  began  his  story. 

History  of  the  first  Calendar. 

"  MY  grandfather  reigned  over  two  adjoining  kingdoms 
*c.e  oi  which  he  bequeathed  at  his  death  to  my  father,  and  th« 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  33 

tc  his  younger  son.  As  the  utmost  cordiaity  subsisted 
Between  the  two  brothers,  when  I  grew  up  and  had  completed 
my  exercises,  I  used  to  pass  a  month  every  year  in  my  uncle  8 
court,  in  company  with  his  son,  who  was  about  my  age,  and 
with  whom  I  had  contracted  an  intimate  friendship. 

fc<  The  last  visit  I  paid  him,  my  uncle  was  absent  on  a 
progress  through  his  distant  provinces.  My  cousin  received 
me  with  unusual  ardor  of  affection.  After  a  few  days'  repose, 
he  told  me  that  I  could  render  him  an  important  service  ;  but 
beforo  he  could  explain  himself,  he  must  exact  a  solemn  oath, 
that  I  would  never  discover  what  he  should  employ  me  to  do, 
nor  any  measure  he  should  take  in  consequence  of  that 
service.  I  had  the  greatest  affection  for  my  cousin,  and 
doubted  not  but  his  whole  conduct  was  regulated  by  virtue 
and  honor.  I  made  no  scruple,  therefore,  to  take  the  oath  he 
required ;  on  which  he  requested  me  to  go  in  the  evening  to 
the  gardens  which  were  set  apart  for  the  women  of  the 
eeraglio.  '  If  you  are  seen/  said  he,  '  no  one  will  venture  to 
question  you ;  and  when  a  lady  joins  you,  all  I  desire  of  you  is, 
to  conduct  her  as  she  shall  direct  you,  and  to  keep  my  secret.' 

"  I  obeyed  his  commands ;  the  lady  met  me,  and  at  her 
desire,  I  conducted  her  to  a  cemetery  adjoining  to  the  city, 
where,  at  a  new  tomb,  we  found  the  prince  waiting  to  receive 
as ;  he  had  with  him  a  pitcher  with  water,  a  hatchet,  and  a 
little  bag  of  plaster.  With  the  hatchet  he  broke  down  the 
sepulchre  in  the  midst  of  the  tomb  ;  he  then  lifted  up  a  trap- 
door, which  discovered  a  staircase:  'This,  madam/  said  he, 
'is  the  way.'  The  lady  immediately  descended  the  stairs, 
and  the  prince  prepared  to  follow  her.  Turning  to  me,  he 
thanked  me  for  my  services ;  but  in  answer  to  my  eager 
Enquiries,  said  only,  <  Adieu,  my  dear  cousin  !  remember  youi 
oath.'  Then  letting  down  the  trap-door,  he  disappeared. 

u  I  returned  to  the  palace  unobserved.  After  some  days, 
the  prince  not  appearing,  the  ministers  of  my  uncle  were 
greatly  distressed  to  know  what  was  become  of  him.  I  did 
not  venture  to  reveal  to  them  what  I  knew ;  and 


10  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

when  for  my  own  satisfaction,  I  sought  the  tomb  where  I  nad 
left  him,  there  were  so  many  alike,  that  I  found  it  impossible 
to  distinguish  it. 

"  As  the  king  continued  his  tour,  I  determined  to  return 
co  my  father's  court ;  on  my  arrival,  I  was  immediately  sur- 
rounded by  the  guards,  and  taken  prisoner.  The  king,  my 
father,  was  dead ;  and  bis  treacherous  vizier,  taking  advantage 
of  my  absence,  had  corrupted  the  soldiery,  and  seized  the 
throne.  This  usurper  had  a  personal  hatred  of  me.  When  I 
was  a  boy,  I  was  shooting  at  a  bird  with  a  cross-bow,  the  ball 
unfortunately  hit  the  vizier  and  put  out  one  of  his  eyes.  I 
made  every  apology  in  my  power,  yet  he  never  forgave  me 
and  now,  when  I  was  brought  into  his  presence,  he  ran  at  me 
in  a  rage,  and  pulled  out  my  right  eye.  But  not  daring  to 
put  me  to  death  in  the  capital,  lest  he  should  excite  an  insur 
rection  among  the  people,  he  sent  me  to  a  distant  part  of  the 
country,  under  the  care  of  his  most  trusty  adherents,  who  had 
orders  to  destroy  me. 

"  From  these  assassins  I  found  means  to  escape,  and  with 
much  difficulty  I  arrived  at  the  dominions  of  my  uncle,  who 
received  me  with  the  greatest  friendship.  After  having  con 
doled  me,  he  told  me  with  much  sorrow  of  the  absence  of  the 
prince,  his  son.  His  excessive  grief  overcame  me ;  and  not- 
withstanding my  oath,  I  told  him  all  that  had  passed  between 
me  and  my  cousin. 

"  The  king  listened  to  me  with  great  attention.  When  I 
had  finished  my  narrative,  he  proposed  we  should  go  privately 
in  search  of  the  tomb.  We  went  accordingly  ;  and  I  knew  it 
immediately,  though  I  had  so  often  sought  for  it  before  in 
vain.  We  removed  the  trap-door  with  much  exertion,  as  the 
prince  had  secured  it  on  the  inside  with  the  mortar  he  took 
with  him.  On  descending,  we  found  an  elegant  suit  of  rooms, 
in  one  of  which  was  a  bed  with  the  curtains  close  drawn  : 
these  the  king  opened,  and  we  found  the  prince  and  the  lady 
in  the  bed,  burnt  to  a  coal. 
"While  I  viewed  this  spectacle  with  horror,  I  was  surprised 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  41 

my  ancle,  instead  of  testifying  grief  at  the  fate  of  his  son, 
§pit  in  his  face,  and  exclaimed,  '  This  is  the  punishment  of  thu 
tforld,  but  that  of  the  other  will  last  to  eternity!'  The  king 
perceived  my  astonishment,  and  explained  his  conduct  by 
M-cquainting  me,  that  a  criminal  passion  had  arisen  between 
the  prince  and  that  lady,  who  was  his  sister :  that  he  had  w 
vain  exerted  the  authority  of  a  father  and  of  a  sovereign,  to 
restrain  these  unworthy  children;  that  before  he  began  his 
late  tour,  he  had  given  an  absolute  order,  that  the  princa 
should  not  be  permitted  to  approach  the  women's  apartment 
'  The  wretch/  continued  the  unhappy  father,  '  has  rendered 
vain  all  my  precautions.  It  is  plain  he  built  these  subter- 
raneous apartments  for  a  retreat,  and  made  use  of  your 
friendship  to  obtain  the  miserable  partner  of  his  iniquity ;  but 
God,  who  would  not  suffer  such  an  abomination,  has  justly 
punished  them  both/ 

"  When  we  were  recovered  from  the  horror  of  this  scene, 
we  agreed  to  retire  as  privately  as  we  came  ;  to  cover  up  the 
trap-door  with  earth,  and  to  hide  if  possible,  forever,  so  shock- 
ing an  instance  of  human  depravity  in  our  relations.  We 
returned  to  the  palace  in  the  deepest  affliction  ;  but  our  atten- 
tion was  soon  called  to  other  objects.  The  vizier,  who  had 
usurped  my  crown,  was  an  able  general ;  not  doubting  bu.t  that 
my  uncle  would  endeavor  to  punish  his  crimes,  and  to  revenge 
me,  he  determined  to  be  beforehand  with  him ;  he  led  the 
flower  of  his  troops  into  the  field,  and  by  skilful  conduct  and 
rapid  marches,  he  contrived  to  surprise  the  capital.  At  the 
instant  of  our  return,  we  found  that  the  enemy  had  entered 
the  gates.  We  flew  to  put  ourselves  at  the  head  of  the 
guards,  and  made  a  vigorous  resistance,  but  the  fortune  of  the 
usurper  prevailed.  My  uncle  fell  gallantly  fighting ;  all  oppo- 
sition became  fruitless ;  I  had  no  hope  of  mercy.  I  contrived 
therefore  to  escape ;  and,  in  this  habit,  I  passed  unknown 
through  my  uncle's  dominions.  I  arrived  this  day  at  Bagdad, 
intending  to  throw  myself  at  the  feet  of  the  glorkus  caHpli 
Haroun  Alraschid,  and  to  implore  his  protection ." 
4* 


If  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

History  of  the  second  Calendar. 

14 1  ALSO,  madam,"  began  the  second  calendar,  "  ain  the  so* 
of  a  king.  I  pass  over  the  events  of  my  early  life,  and  conu 
to  that  which  introduced  me  to  so  many  misfortunes. 

"My  father  having  occasion  to  send  an  embassy  to  the 
eultan  of  the  Indies,  thought  the  journey,  and  the  survey  of  a 
foreign  court,  would  be  exceeding  useful  to  me.  By  his  com- 
mand I  joined  the  caravan;  we  travelled  for  a  month  with 
safety  and  pleasure ;  when  we  were  suddenly  beset  by  a 
numerous  troop  of  robbers,  who  plundered  our  baggage,  killed 
many  of  our  party,  and  dispersed  the  rest. 

"  I  had  the  good  fortune  to  escape  unhurt ;  but  I  was  alone 
and  wholly  unacquainted  with  the  country.  I  journeyed  on 
for  many  weeks,  and  at  last  arrived  at  a  large  city  in  a  mosi 
deplorable  situation ;  my  body  sun-burnt,  my  clothes  worn  out, 
and  without  the  means  of  obtaining  others.  On  my  entering 
the  town,  I  applied  to  a  tailor,  to  mend  my  tattered  garments ; 
while  he  was  rendering  me  this  service,  he  entered  into  con- 
versation with  me,  and  inquired  who  I  was  and  whence  1 
came.  I  made  no  hesitation  to  acquaint  him  with  my  situa- 
tion. '  Take  especial  care/  replied  the  tailor,  *  how  you  reveal 
to  any  one  else  who  you  are ;  the  prince  of  this  country  is  the 
mortal  enemy  of  your  father ;  the  laws  of  hospitality,  or  even 
humanity,  ar^  little  regarded  by  him ;  judge  then  how  neces- 
sary it  is  for  you  to  be  concealed.'  The  instant  I  heard  the 
name  of  the  city  where  I  was,  I  knew  the  necessity  of  this 
saution. 

"  The  friendly  tailor  was  of  the  utmost  service  to  me.  He 
'ook  me  into  his  house,  and  gave  me  such  refreshments  as  his 
poverty  could  furnish.  Some  days  after,  when  I  was  pretty 
well  recovered  from  my  fatigue,  my  host,  knowing  that  most 
princes  of  our  religion  apply  themselves  to  some  art  or  cabling, 
inquired  of  me  which  I  had  learned.  Unfortunately  I  had 
aeglected  that  useful  custom.  <  You  must  then,  said  he, 
submit  to  harder  labor,  for  it  will  not  be  safe  for  you  to  coiv 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4«* 

unemployed  in  this  city ;  join  those  poor  people  wht 
cut  fuel  for  the  use  of  the  town,  in  the  neighloring  forests;  1 
will  supply  you  with  a  proper  habit,  and  with  implements  j 
you  may  then  remain  in  safety  with  me,  till  an  opportunity 
offers  of  returning  to  your  father's  dominions/ 

"I  followed  this  prudent  advice,  and  for  a  year  went  daily 
co  the  forest.  One  day,  as  I  was  pulling  up  the  root  of  a  tree, 
\  espied  an  iron  ring,  fastened  to  a  trap-door  ;  on  lifting  it,  ] 
aaw  some  stairs,  which  I  descended,  and  found  they  led  to 
several  stately  rooms,  in  one  of  which  I  discovered  a  lovely 
lady  :•{  noble  carriage,  and  extraordinary  beauty.  She  ex- 
pressed the  greatest  surprise  at  seeing  me :  *  I  have  lived, 
said  she,  'twenty-five  years  here,  and  never  saw  any  man 
before  !  By  what  adventure  are  you  come  hither  ? ' 

"  I  was  ashamed  to  be  considered  by  so  lovely  a  woman  as 
an  humble  wood-cutter ;  I  therefore  readily  told  her  who  1 
was ;  and  requested  to  know  by  what  accident  she  had  been 
so  long  secluded  from  the  world.  *  Alas  !  prince/  said  she, '  I 
am  also  of  royal  birth  ;  my  father,  king  of  the  isle  of  Ebene, 
gave  me  in  marriage  to  a  prince ;  but  on  my  wedding-night, 
before  I  was  introduced  to  my  spouse,  a  genie  took  nu  away. 

"  ;I  was  a  long  time  inconsolable;  but  time  and  necessity 
have  accustomed  me  to  receive  the  hateful  genie.  He  visits 
me  every  tenth  day.  If  I  wish  to  see  him  at  any  other  time,  1 
touch  the  talisman  you  see  there,  and  he  presently  appears. 
Us  will  not  be  here  these  five  days ;  if  you  choose  to  pass 
them  with  me,  I  will  endeavor  to  entertain  you  according  to 
your  quality  and  merit.  I  embraced  her  proposal  with  the 
greatest  joy. 

u  The  next  day  she  introduced  at  dinner  a  bottle  of  excel 
lent  old  wine  ;  my  head  grew  affected  by  it.  Princess,  said 
I,  you  have  too  long  been  thus  buried  alive ;  you  shall  net 
continue  to  be  enslaved  by  this  tyrant.  Let  him  come ;  1 
swear  I  will  extirpate  all  the  genii  in  the  world,  and  him 
first ;  and  for  this  talisman,  I  will  break  it.  The  princess 
wr treated  me  nok  to  touch  the  talisman.  4 1  know/  said  she* 


f4  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

'  wbat  belongs  to  genii  better  than  you.'  But  in  vain ;  ftu 
fumes  of  the  wine  did  not  suffer  me  to  hearken  to  her.  I  gave 
the  talisman  a  vislent  kick  with  my  foot,  and  broke  it  all  to 
pieces. 

"  Immediately  the  palace  began  to  shake ;  thunder,  lightning, 
and  darkness  appalled  us.  This  terrible  appearance  in  an 
instan*  dispelled  my  drunkenness.  I  perceived  at  once  ny 
folly  and  the  danger  we  were  in. 

"The  princess,  anxious  only  for  me,  urged  me  to  escape 
immediately.  I  obeyed  her  in  so  much  haste,  that  I  left  my 
hatchet  and  cords  behind  me.  I  had  scarce  ascended  up  the 
stairs,  when  I  saw  the  palace  open,  and  the  genie  rushing  in, 
the  earth  closed. 

"  I  returned  to  the  city  in  great  distress,  grieved  at  my  own 
misconduct,  and  in  despair  for  the  poor  princess.  When  I  got 
home,  I  paid  little  attention  to  the  joy  expressed  by  my 
friendly  tailor  for  my  safe  return  ;  but  retired  to  my  chamber, 
and  gave  myself  up  to  the  most  tormenting  reflections. 

"  From  these  I  was  soon  roused  by  my  host,  who  came  to 
tell  me  that  an  old  man  had  brought  home  my  hatchet  and 
cords,  which  he  would  not  deliver  to  any  body  but  myself.  I 
turned  pale  at  this  intelligence  ;  but  before  I  had  time  to 
recover  myself,  the  old  man  followed  him :  <  Do  not  thes^ 
things  belong  to  you  ? '  said  he,  sternly.  This  abrupt  question, 
his  terrible  aspect,  and  my  own  fears  made  me  unable  to 
answer  him.  While  I  continued  thus  torpid  from  terror,  he 
seized  me,  dragged  me  out  of  the  house,  and  mounting  into 
the  air,  carried  me  along  with  incredible  swiftness ;  then 
descending,  he  struck  the  earth  with  his  foot,  which  opened, 
and  we  found  ourselves  in  the  palace  of  the  princess  of 
Ebene.  But  alas  !  what  a  spectacle  !  The  poor  princess  wai 
lying  on  the  ground,  fainting,  naked,  and  bleeding. 

u '  Perfidious  wretch  ! '  said  the  genie  to  her,  4  is  not  this  thy 

gallant  ? '     She,  casting  up  her  languishing  eyes  a:  me,  said, 

I  do  not  know  him,  nor  ever  saw  him  before.'     *  What ! '  said 

>he  genie,  <  Is  he  not  the  cause  of  thy  being  in  the  condition 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  41 

thou  art  so  justly  in !  and  yet  darest  thou  s&y  thou  d<et  Dot 
know  him  ? '  '  I  do  not  know  him/  replied  the  princess.  If 
so/  said  the  genie,  presenting  a  scimitar  to  her,  '  cut  off  his 
head.'  '  Alas ! '  replied  the  princess,  *  I  am  not  able  to  obey 
your  barbarous  command,  even  if  I  was  willing.'  The  genie 
turning  from  her,  with  indignation  said  to  me,  *  And  thcu  -» 
dost  not  thou  know  her  ? ' 

"  I  should  have  been  the  basest  of  slaves,  had  I  been  less 
faithful  to  her  than  the  princess  was  to  me.  I  therefore 
answered  firmly,  I  know  her  not,  nor  have  ever  seen  her 
before.  'Take  then  the  scimitar,'  said  the  genie,  'and  cut 
off  her  head !  I  shall  then  be  convinced  of  your  innocence, 
and  will  set  you  at  liberty.'  With  all  my  heart,  replied  1. 

"  The  unhappy  princess  cast  up  to  me  a  look  expressive  of 
her  readiness  to  die  for  my  safety ;  but  nothing  could  be 
further  from  my  intention  than  to  perpetrate  such  a  crime. 
Checking,  therefore,  my  seeming  readiness,  I  paused  a  mo- 
ment, and  then  said  to  the  genie,  I  cannot  bring  myself  to 
take  away  the  life  of  an  unhappy  lady,  who  hath  done  me  no 
wrong.  If  by  murder  only,  I  can  escape  your  unjust  resent- 
ment, I  am  in  yoi^  power ;  and  you  must  do  with  me  as  you 
please. 

" '  I  see,'  said  the  genie, '  that  you  both  put  me  at  defiance. 
Having  said  this,  he  took  up  the  scimitar,  and  put  an  end  to 
her  life.  Then  turning  to  me,  <  Was  I  sure,'  said  he,  *  that 
she  had  put  a  greater  affront  on  me  than  in  conversing  with 
thee,  thou  also,  should  die :  but  I  will  be  content  with  trans* 
forming  thee  into  a  dog,  ape,  lion,  or  bird ;  take  thy  choice 
O  genie,  said  I,  it  is  more  noble  to  pardon  than  to  punish  f 
;f  you  will  generously  dismiss  me,  I  shall  ever  gratefully 
remember  your  clemency,  and  you  will  act  like  the  illustrious 
wltan  Hassan  Ali,  whose  forbearance  was  the  cause  of  all  his 
*ood  fortune.  *I  will  have  patience  till  you  tell  me  thai 
<-tory,'  replied  the  genie,  '  but  think  not  to  escape  unpur 


k<5  ARABIAN    .NIGHTS 

The  Story  of  the  Envious  Man,  and  of  him  thai  he  &n*etl 
HASSAN  Ali  was  respected  by  all  his  neighbors  except 
by  one  man;  who,  envying  his  great  reputation, conceived  a 
violent  hatred  to  him.  Hassan  endeavored  in  vain,  by 
repeated  good  offices,  to  overcome  this  dislike ;  but  finding 
his  neighbor's  ill-will  unconquerable,  he  determined  to  remove 
to  another  town,  rather  than  live  at  enmity. 

He  removed  accordingly,  put  on  the  habit  of  a  dervis,  and 
passed  his  time  in  retirement.  The  sanctity  of  his  manners, 
and  the  benevolence  of  his  heart,  acquired  him  general  esteem. 
He  was  raised  to  the  head  of  a  convent  of  dervises,  and  hia 
reputation  spread  abroad,  till  it  reached  the  town  he  had  left, 
und  renewed  the  ill-will  of  his  unworthy  neighbor.  This  man, 
becoming  more  inveterate  than  ever  against  Hassan,  deter- 
mined to  visit  him  at  his  convent,  with  intent  to  destroy  him. 
Hassan  received  him  kindly,  and  readily  went  with  him  into 
the  garden  of  the  convent,  to  hear  the  business  he  pretended 
to  have  with  him. 

It  was  night,  and  the  envious  man  was  well  acquainted  with 
the  garden.  He  prolonged  the  conversation  till  they  came  to 
the  edge  of  a  deep  well,  when  suddenly  turning,  he  pushed 
Hassan  into  it.  He  then  left  the  convent  hastily,  and  returned 
home,  rejoicing  that  he  had  gratified  his  malice  and  destroyed 
the  good  dervis. 

It  chanced  that  the  well  was  inhabited  by  fairies  and  genii, 
who  received  Hassan  and  preserved  him. 

While  he  was  reflecting  on  these  events,  he  heard  a  voice 
relating  his  story,  and  after  highly  praising  him,  go  on  to 
declare,  that  the  sultan  intended  to  visit  him  the  next  day  to 
recommend  his  daughter  to  his  prayers. 

Another  voice  asked,  "  What  need  had  the  princess  of  the 
Jervis's  prayers  ?  "  To  which  the  first  answered,  "  She  is  pos- 
«essed  by  a  genie,  but  the  cure  is  easy ;  there  is  in  the  convent 
*  black  cat.  with  a  white  spot  at  the  end  of  her  tail ;  let  seven 
tf  these  white  hairs  be  burned  in  tl  e  presence  of  the  princess, 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  47 

And  the  genie  will  leave  her,  and  never  dare  tc  retjrn."  The 
dervis  took  care  to  remember  this  conversation.  In  the  morn- 
ing he  got  out  of  the  well  without  difficulty  :  when  he  entered 
the  convent,  his  cat  coming  as  usual  to  play  about  him,  he 
oulled  out  seven  hairs  from  the  white  spot  on  the  tail,  and  put 
'.hem  safely  by. 

Shortly  afterwards,  the  sultan  arrived  with  his  attendants. 
Hassan  received  him  with  suitable  respect,  and  immediately, 
before  the  sultan  had  explained  the  cause  of  his  coming,  lie 
caused  fire  to  be  brought  in ;  and  burning  the  hairs,  the  genie 
gave  a  great  'iry,  and  left  the  princess,  who  instantly  appeared 
to  be  perfectly  recovered.  The  sultan  rejoiced  beyond  measure 
at  this  event :  having  the  highest  opinion  of  the  good  dervis, 
he  gave  him  his  daughter  for  a  wife,  and  dying  soon  after, 
Hassan  succeeded  to  his  throne. 

When  he  made  his  public  entry  into  his  capital,  great 
crowds  flocked  from  all  parts  to  see  their  new  sovereign. 
Among  the  rest,  came  the  envious  man,  who  little  expected  to 
find  his  old  neighbor  alive,  and  become  his  prince.  The  good 
Hassan,  seeing  him  in  the  throng,  commanded  him  to  be 
brought  before  him.  The  envious  man  came  into  his  presence 
trembling,  and  expecting  the  punishment  he  deserved ;  but  the 
gultan  ordered  him  valuable  presents,  and  dismissed  him  with 
this  remark :  "  I  freely  forgive  thy  past  malice,  and  consider 
thee  as  entitled  to  reward,  having  been  the  cause  of  my  good 
fortune ;  but  as  the  evil  thou  didst  intend  me  has  been  most 
serviceable  to  me,  so  the  good  I  now  do  thee  wi*1  Become  evi) 
if  thou  dost  not  shake  off  thy  malignity." 

"  You  see,  genie,  said  I,  how  nobly  Hassan  Ali  behaved 
to  his  enemy.  Let  me  entreat  you  to  follow  his  example. 
Instead  of  attending  to  my  request,  the  genie  threw  some 
earth  in  my  face,  and  vanished.  I  found  myself  all  at  once 
Amoved  from  the  palace  to  the  ridge  of  a  mountain,  and 
transformed  into  an  ape. 

"I  was  overwhelmed  with  sorrow  at  this  metamorphosis. 
I  '.Stermined,  without  knowing  why,  to  leave  the.  nountain  and 


48  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

go  to  the  sea-coast,  which  1  saw  at  a  great  distance  When  1 
came  there,  I  found  a  vessel  at  anchor  near  the  shore  ;  I  broke 
off  the  arm  of  a  tree,  and  getting  on  it,  guided  it  with  two 
•mall  sticks,  which  served  me  for  oars,  till  I  came  close  to  the 
vessel,  when  I  seized  a  rope,  and  jumped  on  board.  The  pas- 
sengers had  seen  my  dexterity  with  much  pleasure  ;  but  when 
I  leaped  on  board,  their  superstition  took  alarm ;  every  one 
pursued  me  with  handspikes  or  arrows,  and  I  should  certainly 
have  b«en  slain,  if  I  had  not  thrown  myself  at  the  feet  of  the 
captain,  and,  by  my  tears  and  expressive  gestures,  obtained 
his  protection. 

"  A  few  days  after,  we  made  the  port  of  a  capital  town.  On 
our  arrival,  some  off  cers  came  on  board  and  desired  as  many 
as  chose,  to  write  in  a  paper  they  produced.  The  reason  of 
this  request  was,  the  vizier  of  the  country  was  lately  dead ; 
who,  besides  possessing  other  great  talents,  was  a  very  fine 
writer ;  and  the  sultan  had  determined  not  to  give  his  place 
but  to  one  who  could  write  as  well.  Every  body,  on  hearing 
tnis  story,  was  eager  to  write.  When  they  had  done,  1  made 
signs  that  I  could  wrile.  The  officers  paid  no  regard  to  me, 
but  the  captain  stood  once  more  my  friend.  At  his  request  a 
pen  was  given  to  me,  and  I  wrote  six  sorts  of  hands  used 
among  the  Arabians ;  each  specimen  being  a  distich  in  com- 
pliment to  the  sultan.  As  soon  as  that  prince  saw  my  writing, 
he  ordered  his  officers  to  conduct  the  writer  to  court  in  great 
pomp,  and  to  declare  him  vizier.  The  officers  could  not, 
restrain  their  laughter  on  receiving  this  order,  but  imme- 
diately apologized  to  their  sovereign  by  acquainting  him  that 
the  writer  was  not  a  man,  but  an  ape.  The  sultan  was  amazed, 
\nd  expressed  great  desire  to  see  me.  On  my  being  intro 
tuced,  I  directly  paid  my  respects  to  him,  in  the  usual  manner, 
o  the  surprise  of  the  spectators ;  who  wondered  how  an  ape 
hould  distinguish  the  prince,  and  behave  to  him  so  properly. 

"  The  sultan  retiring  to  dine,  made  a  sign  for  me  to  attend 
bim.  After  dinner  a  -hess-board  was  brought  in,  and  on  hit? 
pointing  to  it,  I  madi  him  understand  that  I  could  play  U«? 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4f 

game.  We  sat  down ;  the  sultan  won  the  first  game,  but  I  won 
the  second  and  third.  Seeing  him  disconcerted,  I  immediately 
wrote  a  complimentary  distich,  which  restored  his  good  humor, 

"  The  sultan  had  a  daughter,  who  was  justly  called  the  Lady 
of  Beauty,  of  whom  he*  was  exceedingly  fond.  Thinking  the 
idght  of  so  wonderful  an  ape  would  entertain  her,  he  sent  fot 
her ;  on  her  entering  the  room,  she  let  fall  her  veil,  though 
there  were  only  the  customary  attendants  present.  The  sultan 
inquired  the  cause  of  this  novelty:  *  Sir,'  replied  the  princess, 
the  ape,  you  have  by  you,  is  a  young  prince,  transformed  by 
enchantment.  I  have  learned  the  seventy  rules  of  magic, 
whence  I  know,  at  first  sight,  all  persons  who  are  enchanted, 
and  how  they  became  so.'  '  Have  you  power,  also,'  said  thu 
Bultan, *  to  dispel  the  charm  ? '  <  I  have,'  replied  the  princess. 
*  Do  so  then  immediately,  I  entreat  you,'  said  the  sujtan ;  <  I 
interest  myself  exceedingly  in  this  prince's  fortune ;  if  you 
can  restore  him,  I  will  make  him  my  vizier,  and  he  shall 
marry  you.' 

"The  Lady  of  Beauty  retired,  and  presently  returning, 
brought  a  knife  which  had  some  Hebrew  words  engraved  on 
the  blade.  She  conducted  the  sultan  and  myself,  attended  by 
the  master  of  the  eunuchs  and  a  little  slave,  into  a  private 
court  of  the  palace ;  and  placing  us  in  the  gallery,  she  drew  a 
circle,  within  which  she  wrote  several  words  in  Arabian 
characters,  some  of  them  ancient,  others  of  the  character 
of  Cleopatra. 

"  When  she  had  finished  the'  circle,  she  placed  herself  in 
the  centre  of  it,  where  she  began  adjurations,  and  repeated 
verses  out  of  the  Alcoran.  The  air  insensibly  grew  dark  ;  all 
at  once  the  genie  appeared  in  the  shape  of  a  lion  of  a  fright- 
ful size. 

u  4  Wi-etch,'  said  the  princess  to  him, '  darest  thou  present 
thyself  in  that  shape,  thinking  to  frighten  me  ?  '  '  And  thou,' 
replied  the  lion, '  art  thou  not  afraid  to  break  the  treaty  which 
was  so  solemnly  made  between  us  ?  but  thou  shalt  quickly  have 
thy  reward.'  At  these  words,  he  opened  his  terrible  jaws  and 

5 


ftO  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

ran  at  her  to  devour  her;  but  she  leaped  backward,  puLed  ooi 
one  of  her  hairs,  and,  by  pronouncing  three  or  four  woids, 
ehanged  herself  into  a  sharp  sword,  and  cut  the  lion  ir.  two. 

•'  The  lion  vanished,  and  a  scorpion  appeared  in  his  room, 
The  princess  became  a  serpent,  and  fought  the  scorpion ;  who, 
finding  himself  worsted,  took  the  shape  of  an  eagle,  and  flew 
away.  The  serpent  also  took  the  same  shape,  and  pursued 
him  ;  so  that  we  lost  sight  of  them  both.  Some  time  after, 
:he  giound  opened,  and  there  came  forth  a  cat,  with  her  hail 
i  t&iiding  upright,  and  making  a  fearful  mewing  ;  a  black  wolf 
followed  her  close,  and  gave  her  ne  time  to  rest  The  cat  thus 
hard  beset,  changed  herself  into  a  worm ;  and  a  pomegranate 
lying  by  the  side  of  the  canal,  the  worm  pierced  it  in  an 
instant,  and  hid  itself;  but  the  pomegranate  immediately 
swelled  as  big  as  a  gourd,  and  presently  burst  into  several 
pieces.  The  wolf  became  a  cock,  and  picked  up  the  seeds  of 
(he  pomegranate ;  when  he  could  find  no  more,  he  came 
towards  us,  as  if  he  would  ask  us  whether  he  had  left  any. 
There  was  one  lying  on  the  brink  of  the  canal,  which  we 
perceiving,  pointed  it  out  to  the  cock,  which  ran  speedily 
towards  it ;  just  as  he  was  going  to  pick  it  up,  the  seed  rolled 
into  the  river,  and  became  a  little  fish.  The  cock  jumped  into 
the  river,  and  was  turned  into  a  pike,  which  pursued  the  small 
fish.  They  continued  both  under  water  about  two  hours,  and 
we  began  to  wonder  what  had  become  of  them ;  when,  on  a 
sudden,  we  heard  such  terrible  cries  as  made  us  tremble,  and 
presently  we  saw  the  princess  and  the  genie  all  in  flames. 
They  threw  flashes  of  fire  at  each  other  so  fiercely,  that  we 
apprehended  the  palace  would  be  consumed ;  but  we  soon  had 
mere  reason  to  be  alarmed  ;  for  the  genie,  having  got  loose 
from  the  princess,  came  to  the  gp.llery,  and  blew  fl  «nes  on  us. 
The  princess  flew  to  o  r  relief  and  beat  away  tne  genie 
but  in  that  momentary  aWnck,  the  sultan's  face  was  dreadfully 
§corched,  the  eunuch  was  stifled,  and  a  spark  entering  my 
right  eye,  it  became  blind.  We  expected  notbing  but  death, 
when  we  heard  a  cry  of  'victory!  victory  ' — the 


ENTE  ITAINMENTS.  51 

appeared  in  her  natural  shupe,  but  the  genie  was  leductxl  to  * 
heap  of  ashes. 

"  The  princess  hastily  caught  up  some  water  in  the  hollo* 
of  her  hand,  and  uttering  certain  words,  she  threw  it  over  me, 
and  I  became  a  man  as  before,  one  eye  only  excepted.  As  I 
was  about  to  return  thanks  to  my  deliverer,  she  prevented  me 
b7  addressing  her  father  thus :  6  Sir,  I  have  got  the  victory 
over  the  genie ;  bu/  it  is  a  victory  that  costs  me  dear,  as  I  have 
but  a  few  moments  u>  live.  This  would  not  have  been,  had  I 
perceived  the  last  of  the  pomegranate  seeds,  and  swallowed  it 
as  I  did  the  others.  That  oversight  obliged  me  to  have 
recourse  to  fire,  and  to  fight  with  those  mighty  arms,  as  1  did, 
between  heaven  and  earth,  in  your  presence.  I  have  con- 
quered, and  reduced  the  genie  to  ashes ;  but  the  fire  pierced 
me  also,  during  that  terrible  combat,  and  I  find  I  cannot 
escape  death.' 

"  We  were  thunderstruck  at  this  declaration,  and  had  scarce 
recovered  the  power  of  expressing  our  sorrow,  when  the 
princess  cried  out :  <  Oh,  I  burn ! '  She  continued  some  time 
crying  out,  till  at  last  the  effect  of  the  fire  was  so  violent,  that 
she  also,  as  the  genie,  was  reduced  to  a  heap  of  ashes. 

«  I  was  inexpressibly  grieved  for  this  fatal  misfortune 
The  sultan  fainted  away ;  and  when  he  revived,  he  continued 
several  days  so  ill  that  his  life  was  despaired  of.  When  he 
was  a  little  recovered,  he  sent  for  me :  '  Prince,'  said  he, 
1  listen  to  the  orders  I  now  give  you ;  it  will  cost  you  your  life 
if  you  do  not  obey  them.  I  have  constantly  lived  in  felicity 
till  you  arrived  in  my  dominions ;  I  need  not  remind  you  of 
the  sad  reverse  I  now  experience,  or  of  the  loss  of  my  daugh- 
ter. You  are  the  cause  of  all.  Depart  from  hence  in  peaoe, 
without  delay ;  I  am  persuaded  your  presence  brings  mischief 
along  with  it :  depart,  and  take  care  of  ever  appearing  again 
in  my  dominions :  there  is  no  consideration  that  shall  hinder 
my  making  you  repent  of  it,  if  you  do/  I  was  going  to 
reply,  but  he  prevented  me,  and  drove  me  from  his  presence 
with  words  full  of  anger.  Rejected,  banished,  thrown  off  DJ 


52  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

til  tne  world,  I  caused  my  beard  and  eyebrows  to  be  shaved 
and  set  off  for  Bagdad ;  lamenting  more  for  the  two  unfortu- 
nate princesses  than  for  my  own  wretchedness.  I  arrived  hew 
Jhis  evening,  and  hope  to  get  admission  to  the  commander 
of  the  Faithful,  and,  by  reciting  my  strange  adventures,  to 
obtain  his  princely  compassion." 


History  of  the  third  Calendar. 

" My  name  is  Agib.  I  am  the  son  of  a  king,  at  whoec 
death,  I  took  possession  of  an  extensive  and  flourishing  king- 
dom. When  I  was  settled  on  the  throne,  I  resolved  to  visit 
the  distant  provinces  of  my  empire,  particularly  several  valu- 
able islands.  We  had  an  exceeding  pleasant  voyage  there, 
but  on  our  return,  a  furious  storm  arose,  and  drove  us  so  far 
out  of  our  course,  that  the  pilot  knew  not  in  which  direction 
to  steer.  While  we  were  in  this  uncertainty,  a  sailor  from 
the  mast-head  gave  notice  that  he  saw  something  which  had 
the  appearance  of  land,  but  looked  uncommonly  black. 

"  The  pilot  on  this  report  expressed  the  utmost  consterna- 
tion. *  We  are  lost/  said  he,  *  the  tempest  has  driven  us  within 
the  influence  of  the  black  mountain,  which  is  a  rock  of  ada- 
mant, and  at  this  time  its  attraction  draws  us  towards  it ;  to- 
morrow we  shall  approach  so  near,  that  the  iron  and  nails  will 
be  drawn  out  of  the  ship,  which  of  course  must  fall  to  pieces, 
and  as  the  mountain  is  entirely  inaccessible,  we  must  all 
l/erish.' 

"  This  account  was  too  true.  The  next  day,  as  we  draw 
aear  the  mountain,  the  iron  all  flew  to  it,  the  ship  fell  to 
pieces,  and  the  whole  crew  perished  in  my  sight.  I  had  the 
good  fortune  to  secure  a  plank  which  bore  me  up,  and  the 
tide  gently  drove  me  to  the  foot  of  the  mountain ;  when  1 
approached  it,  I  found  it  was  entirely  perpendicular  for  * 
great  height ;  I  continued  therefore  on  my  plank,  coasting  it, 
ind  was  almost  reduced  to  despair,  when  I  discovered  a  flight 
/  steps  that  went  up  to  the  top.  These  I  gained  witb 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  51 

ijficnlty ;  there  was  no  ground  on  either  sick  *,  and  when  • 
landed  I  found  the  steps  so  narrow,  rugged,  and  difficult,  thai 
the  least  wind  must  have  blown  me  into  the  sea.  I  got  uj>, 
notwithstanding,  to  the  top  without  accident,  and  gave  God 
thanks  for  my  deliverance. 

"  On  the  summit  of  the  mountain  I  found  a  dome  of  fint 
brass,  upon  the  top  of  which  stood  the  figure  of  a  man  oc 
horseback,  of  the  same  metal.  Being  much  fatigued,  I  laid 
down  under  the  dome,  and  soon  fell  asleep ;  when  I  dreamt 
that  the  old  man  came  to  me,  and  said,  <  Hearken,  Agib !  —  as 
soon  as  thou  art  awake,  dig  up  the  ground  under  thy  feet,  and 
thou  shalt  find  a  bow  of  brass  and  three  arrows  of  lead ;  shoot 
the  arrows  at  the  statue,  and  the  rider  will  fall  into  the  sea, 
but  the  horse  will  fall  down  by  thee,  which  thou  must  bury 
in  the  same  place  whence  thou  takest  the  bow  and  arrows, 
This  being  done,  the  mountain  will  gradually  sink  down  into 
the  sea ;  and  thou  wilt  have  the  glory  of  delivering  mankind 
from  the  many  calamities  it  occasions.  When  it  has  sunk  to 
the  surface  of  the  water,  thou  shalt  see  a  boat  with  one  man 
in  it ;  this  man  is  also  of  metal.  Step  on  board  the  boat,  and 
let  him  conduct  thee  ;  in  ten  days'  time  he  will  bring  thee  to 
laud,  whence  thou  wilt  find  easy  passage  to  thy  own  country. 
But  be  particularly  careful  not  to  mention  the  name  of  God 
while  thou  continues!  in  this  boat/ 

"  When  I  awoke  I  was  much  comforted  by  the  vision,  which 
I  prepared  to  obey.  I  dug  up  the  arrows,  and  shot  them  at 
the  statue ;  every  event  foretold  in  my  dream  followed  pre- 
cisely; and  when  I  got  into  the  "boat  of  metal,  I  found  a 
quantity  of  all  kinds  of  refreshments,  which  were  very  accept- 
able. For  nine  days  the  man  of  metal  continued  to  row  day 
and  night  without  ceasing.  I  was  so  mindful  of  the  caution  1 
had  received,  that  I  did  net  speak  at  all ;  but  arriving  then 
near  some  islands,  my  joy  made  me  forget  myself,  and  1 
exclaimed,  God's  name  be  blest !  Immediately  the  man  and 
boat  sunk,  and  I  was  left  in  t  *e  water. 

"I  got  safe  on  shore,  av  ]  presently  saw  a  vessel  drawing 


D4  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

nigh  the  island .  not  knowing  what  sort  of  people  might  De  in 
it,  I  climbed  a  thick  tree,  from  whence  I  could  see  them  undis* 
covered.  Presently  a  number  of  slaves  landed,  and  began  to 
dig  near  the  tree  where  I  had  taken  refuge.  Soon  after,  a 
venerable  old  gentleman  came  on  shore,  leading  a  handsome 
youth,  attended  by  several  slaves  who  carried  provisions. 
They  came  together  to  the  place  where  the  slaves  had  opened 
the  ground :  after  a  short  stay,  they  all  returned  to  the  vesselg 
except  the  young  man,  and  sailed  away. 

«  When  I  perceived  they  were  at  such  a  distance  that  they 
ttould  not  see  me,  I  descended  from  the  tree,  and  easily 
removing  the  loose  earth,  came  to  a  flight  of  steps ;  these  I 
descended,  and  found  a  room  handsomely  furnished,  and  the 
young  man  sitting  upon  a  couch.  He  started  at  the  sight  of 
aie,  yet  rose  to  receive  me  with  a  good  grace.  I  presently 
removed  his  fears,  by  offering  to  deliver  him  from  his  confine- 
ment, on  which  he  requested  me  with  a  smile  to  sit  down  by 
him,  while  he  related  the  cause  of  his  being  left  in  that  place. 

u  *  My  father,  sir,  said  he,  <  had  grown  old  in  successful 
traffic,  and  had  gained  immense  wealth,  before  it  had  pleased 
Providence  to  grant  him  a  child  to  inherit  it.  He  had  begun 
to  despair  of  the  blessing,  when  I  was  born.  The  joy  he  felt 
At  my  birth  was  presently  clouded  over ;  for,  in  his  anxiety 
for  my  welfare,  he  consulted  astrologers,  as  to  what  my  future 
lot  would  be.  They  told  him  I  should  reach  fifteen  in  perfect 
health,  and  if  I  survived  that  birthday,  I  should  attain  a  good 
old  age,  in  prosperity ;  but  that  about  that  time,  prince  Agib 
would  throw  down  the  statue  of  brass  from  the  mountain  of 
adamant,  and  within  fifty  days  after  would  put  an  end  to  my 
life. 

"<My  father  was  exceedingly  afflicted  at  this  prediction, 
and  prepared  this  habitation  to  conceal  me  in  at  the  destined 
period.  As  the  time  slid  on,  his  uneasiness  in  some  degree 
subsided;  but  he  learned  yesterday,  that  ten  days  ago  the 
Btatue  was  overturned  by  the  prince  they  had  mentioned ;  and 
I  ¥ant  just  forty  days  to  complete  my  fifteenth  year.  Thes* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  51 

Circumstances  have  awakened  all  his  terrors  }  he  hasten*,  d  t* 
place  me  in  this  asylum,  to  which  I  came  very  cheerfully ;  ft * 
surely  prince  Agib  will  never  seek  me  in  a  place  unde? 
ground,  in  the  midst  of  a  desert  island/ 

"  Whilst  the  young  man  was  relating  this  story,  I  was  sur- 
prised to  find  myself  so  much  interested  in  it.  I  despised 
those  astrologers,  who  had  foretold  that  I  should  take  away 
ihe  life  of  a  youth  for  whom  I  already  began  to  feel  affection. 
[  encouraged  him  in  the  hopes  that  he  was  out  of  all  danger  j 
C  offered  to  continue  with  him  as  a  companion  during  his  con- 
finement, but  took  care  not  to  let  him  know  that  I  was  the 
Agib  whom  he  dreaded.  He  received  my  offer  with  joy ;  and 
we  passed  thirty- nine  days  very  pleasantly. 

u  The  fortieth  day  came,  and  in  the  morning  the  young 
man  rejoice!  that  the  threatened  danger  was  over;  he  pre- 
pared himself  by  bathing  to  receive  his  father,  and  being 
fatigued,  he  kid  down  on  a  couch  to  repose.  After  a  while 
he  requested  me  to  give  him  some  melon.  I  looked  out  the 
besl  which  remained,  but  was  at  a  loss  for  a  knife  to  cut  it. 
4  There  is  one,'  said  he, '  on  the  cornice  over  my  head.'  I  saw 
it,  and  made  so  much  haste  to  reach  it,  that  when  I  had  taken 
it  iii  my  band,  my  foot  being  entangled  in  the  covering  of  the 
couch,  I  fell  most  unhappily  on  the  young  man,  and  run  the 
kn^fe  into  his  heart. 

"  It  is  impossible  *o  express  the  anguish  I  felt  at  this  fatal 
accident.  I  cried  out,  beat  my  breast,  and  threw  myself  on  the 
gio'jod.  When  there  transports  had  a  little  subsided,  it  for- 
tur>9taly  occurred  to  me  that  my  situation  was  very  dangerous  ,• 
that  the  old  man  ?.nd  his  slaves  would  probably  arrive  soon, 
and  fin-Fug  me  ir  the  cavern  and  his  son  slain,  T  had  every- 
thing to  dread  from  his  resentment.  These  considerations 
wore  very  seasonable,  for  on  my  hastening  out  of  the  apart- 
mert,  I  perceived  that  the  vessel  had  arrived,  and  the  old 
u*&n  ^ith  his  slaves  were  landing.  I  had  but  just  time  to  - 

the  tr^e  which  before  concealed  me,  wber  they  came  to 
s»  fcterrineous  dwelling. 


$6  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

« I  jouid  observe  that  they  came  forward  with  confidence 
which  abated  greatly  when  they  found  the  ground  open. 
Some  of  the  slaves  hastily  descended,  and  soon  returned, 
bearing  the  deceased  youth,  with  the  knife  sticking  in  his 
body,  for  I  had  not  had  power  to  take  it  out.  At  this  piteous 
sight  the  old  man  fell  down  in  a  swoon  ;  the  slaves  lamented  j 
and,  though  unseen  by  them,  I  joined  in  their  grief  very 
heartily.  After  a  time,  when  they  had  with  difficulty  recov- 
ered the  old  man,  they  by  his  direction,  made  a  grave  and 
buried  the  poor  youth ;  the  unhappy  father,  overwhelmed 
with  sorrow,  threw  the  first  earth  on  him  ;  the  slaves  speedily 
tilled  up  the  grave,  and  then  carrying  their  afflicted  pafron 
on  board  the  vessel,  they  departed. 

"  I  had  hoped  to  be  conveyed  to  the  continent  by  means  of 
this  ship ;  but  being  thus  fatally  disappointed,  I  was  obliged 
to  continue  and  ramble  about  the  island  for  a  month  longer 
living  on  the  wild  fruits  it  produced ;  at  length  I  discovered  <i 
part  where  the  channel  was  not  very  wide;  I  contrived  to 
pass  over  here,  without  much  difficulty.  When  I  landed,  I 
set  off  with  spirit,  and  presently  thought  I  saw  at  a  distance 
a  great  fire ;  I  rejoiced  much  at  the  sign  of  inhabitants,  but 
when  I  drew  near,  I  found  what  I  had  supposed  a  fire,  was 
the  reflections  of  the  sunbeams  on  a  castle  of  copper. 

"It  was  evening  before  I  reached  this  building,  where  1 
was  very  hospitably  received  by  ten  handsome  young  men, 
who  were  all  blind  of  the  right  ey«  They  introduced  me 
into  the  castle,  allotted  me  an  apartment,  and  invited  me  to 
gup  with  them ;  after  which,  at  their  request,  I  related  what 
had  befallen  me.  We  continued  very  merry,  till  it  grew  late, 
when  one  of  the  company  reminded  the  rest  that  it  was  time 
for  them  to  perform  their  duty.  Immediately,  upon  a  signal 
given,  ten  basins  were  brought  in,  and  one  set  before  each  of 
the  gentlemen.  They  uncovered  the  basins,  which  contained 
ashes,  coal-dust,  and  lamp-black ;  with  these  they  bedaubed 
their  faces,  beating  their  breasts,  weeping  and  exclaiming, 
*  This  is  the  fruit  of  our  idleness  and  debauchery.'  This  exer- 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  51 

rise  continued  a  long  time;  after  which,  water  beirg  brougl  i 
in,  they  washed,  and  each  withdrew  in  silence  to  his  owi 
apartment. 

UI  was  conducted  also  to  my  bed-chamber;  but  th<*ugl; 
fatigued,  I  was  too  much  astonished  to  sleep.  In  the  morning 
I  very  earnestly  requested  the  gentlemen  to  tell  me  the  mean- 
ing of  what  I  had  seen,  and  also  how  it  chanced  they  were  all 
blind  of  the  right  eye.  They  positively  refused  to  give  me 
this  satisfaction,  declaring  that  I  sought  to  indulge  a  curiosity, 
which  I  should  repent  of  as  long  as  I  lived.  Thus  silenced,  1 
passed  the  day  with  them  at  their  own  request,  and  the  even- 
ing was  closed  with  a  repetition  of  their  disgusting  penance. 

"  The  day  following,  I  renewed  my  inquiries  in  so  earnest 
a  manner,  that  one  of  them,  in  behalf  of  the  rest,  said,  '  It  is 
out  of  friendship  to  you,  prince,  that  we  have  withheld  from 
you  the  information  you  wish  ;  but  if  you  continue  to  demand 
it,  we  are  not  at  liberty  to  refuse  you.  Know,  however,  that 
you  will  lose  your  right  eye,  by  gratifying  your  dangerous 
curiosity ;  and  that  when  that  misfortune  hath  befallen  you, 
you  cannot  remain  with  us,  as  our  number  is  complete,  and  nc 
addition  can  be  made  to  it.' 

"  As  I  still  persisted,  the  gentlemen  killed  a  sheep  and 
skinned  it.  They  presented  me  with  a  knife,  and  sewed  me 
up  in  the  skin,  telling  me,  '  We  must  now  leave  you ;  but 
presently  a  roc  will  come,  and  taking  you  for  a  sheep,  will  fly 
away  with  you.  Be  not  alarmed ;  but  when  he  alights,  cut 
open  the  skin  and  throw  it  off,  when  he  will  fly  away.  You 
will  then  see  a  large  palace,  which  you  will  enter.  We  have 
%11  been  there,  but  may  not  tell  you  what  befel  us,  or  explain 
ourselves  any  further/ 

"  The  gentlemen  then  left  me,  and  presently  the  roc  came 
and  carried  me  away.  The  roc  is  a  white  bird  of  monstrous 
size,  and  of  such  strength,  that  it  takes  elephants  from  the 
plains  to  the  tops  of  the  mountains,  where  he  feeds  on  them 
On  his  alighting,  I  threw  off  the  skin  as  I  was  directe*?1,  and  the 
away. 


58  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

«  I  walked  forward  to  the  palace,  which  was  more  splendid 
than  imagination  can  conceive ;  and  when  I  entered  it,  I  wa& 
received  by  f  Drty  ladies,  of  exquisite  beauty,  most  sumptuously 
apparelled.  They  conducted  me  into  a  spacious  hall,  the  doora 
of  which  were  of  burnished  gold  set  with  diamonds  and  rubies, 
and  everything  within  it  of  equal  magnificence.  Here,  not- 
withstanding my  opposition,  they  placed  me  on  a  seat  exalted 
above  theirs,  saying, '  You  are  at  present,  oar  lord ;  and  we 
are  your  slaves  ready  to  obey  your  commands/ 

"  Nothing  could  exceed  the  desire  of  these  beautiful  ladies 
to  do  me  service.  They  brought  in  a  handsome  collation  and 
delicious  wines ;  after  which  they  ^rtertained  me  with  a  con- 
cert and  dancing.  The  day  following  was  spent  in  the  same 
manner ;  music,  dancing,  feasting,  and  wantonness  marked  the 
moments  as  they  flew  ;  and  the  whole  year  passed  away  while 
I  thus  indulged  myself  in  eveiy  species  of  voluptuousness. 

"  At  the  end  of  the  year  I  was  surprised  to  see  the  ladies 
enter  my  aj>artments,  all  in  great  affliction.  They  embraced 
me  with  much  tenderness,  and  bade  me  adieu.  I  conjured 
them  to  explain  to  me  the  cause  of  their  grief,  and  of  their 
being  about  to  leave  me ;  when  one  of  them  told  me,  that  they 
were  obliged  to  be  absent  forty  days,  upon  indispensable  duties 
which  they  were  not  permitted  to  reveal ;  and  that  their  sor- 
rows arose  from  the  apprehension  that  they  should  see  me 
again  no  more.  'This,'  continued  she,  *  will  wholly  depend 
upon  yourself ;  here  are  the  keys  of  an  hundred  doors  which 
you  will  find  in  the  adjoining  courts.  These  we  are  obliged 
to  leave  with  you.  You  will  find  abundance  of  curious  things 
within  ninety-nine  of  these  doors  .to  gratify  and  amuse  you, 
which  you  may  enjoy  in  safety ;  but  if  you  open  the  golden 
door,  we  shall  never  see  you  again.  And  it  is  the  fear  lest 
you  should  be  overcome  by  an  indiscreet  curiosity,  that  gives 
DS  so  much  disturbance/ 

"  I  embraced  the  ladies  all  around,  and  gave  them  my  besc 
thanks  for  a  sorrow  so  very  flattering  to  me.  I  assured  them, 
in  *lie  most  earnest  manner,  that  nothing  should  induce  me  to 


ENTERTAINMENTS  5fc 

forfeit  their  society,  by  breaking  their  injunction.  1  receive  I 
the  hundred  keys  ;  and  having  exchanged  many  farewells,  the;) 
departed,  and  I  was  left  alone. 

"  My  time  had  been  passed  in  such  a  perpetual  round  oi 
pleasure,  that  I  had  not  before  had  the  least  desire  to  examine 
tnis  inimitable  palace.  As  I  was  now  at  leisure,  and  had  per- 
mission to  open  ninety-nine  of  the  doors,  I  began  with  niucL 
eagerness  to  gratify  my  curiosity.  It  would  be  tedious  if  i  • 
were  possible,  to  describe  what  I  found  within  these  doors ;  — 
all  that  is  beautiful  in  nature,  or  elegant  in  art  was  there,  ID 
the  highest  perfection  and  abundance.  The  wealth,  as  well  in 
jewels  as  in  gold,  was  incredible.  This  immense  display  of 
everything  valuable  and  curious  was  so  extensive,  that  nine 
and  thirty  days  were  passed  by  the  time  I  had  explored  the 
/dnety-nine  apartments  I  was  allowed  to  visit. 

"  The  sight  of  such  profusion  of  wealth,  which  I  considered 
as  my  own,  elated  me  beyond  measure ;  and  the  near  return 
of  my  admirable  princesses  dissolved  me  in  tenderness.  One 
day  only  remained,  and  one  door,  the  fatal  door,  alone  was  un- 
opened. My  weak  curiosity  was  ungovernable.  I  yielded  to 
the  temptation.  I  opened  that  door.  A  smell  that  was  pleasant 
enough,  though  too  powerful  for  me,  overcame  me,  and  I  fainted 
away.  When  I  recovered,  instead  of  taking  warning  and  with- 
drawing, I  went  in.  The  scent  remained,  but  no  longer 
affected  me.  Among  many  objects  that  engaged  my  attention, 
I  saw  a  ™vy  fine  horse,  superbly  caparisoned ;  I  took  him  by 
the  bridle,  and  led  him  forth  into  the  court ;  I  got  upon  his  back, 
and  would  havr  rode  him,  but  he  not  stirring,  I  wl  ipped  him, 
He  no  sooner  fult  the  stroke,  than  he  began  to  neigh  in  aa 
urusual  and  horrible  manner;  and  extending  wings,  which  1 
had  not  observed,  he  flew  up  with  me  into  the  air.  I  had 
presence  of  mind  to  sit  fast.  After  a  while  he  flew  down  again 
towards  the  earth ;  and  lighting  upon  the  terrace  of  a  castle, 
without  giving  me  time  to  dismount,  he  shook  me  out  of  the 
saddle,  an.d  having  with  the  end  of  his  tail  struck  out  \ny  right 
>yc,  he  flew  again  out  of  my  sight 


UO  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

"  I  got  up  much  troubled  with  the  misfortune  I  had  oroin'hf 
upon  myself:  I  found  the  castle  was  the  same  from  which  the 
roc  had  carried  me,  and  presently  met  the  ten  gentlemen,  who 
were  not  at  all  surprised  to  see  me  ;  as  every  one  of  them  had 
passed  through  the  same  adventure.  After  condoling  with 
me,  and  lamenting  that  it  was  not  permitted  them  to  add  me 
t;,  their  number,  they  directed  me  to  seek  the  court  of  Bagdad, 
where  I  should  meet  him  that  would  decide  my  destiny.  Ac- 
cordingly I  put  on  this  dress,  and  arrived  here  this  evening.*7 


The  third  calendar  having  finished  his  history,  a 
eilence  pervaded  the  company.  At  length  Zobeide,  addressing 
the  calendars,  said,  "  your  adventures,  princes,  are  indeed  as 
singular  as  they  are  distressing  ;  and  I  am  very  sorry  it  ia 
impossible,  after  what  has  happened,  that  we  should  permit 
you  to  remain  any  longer  within  our  walls  ;  but  we  have  also 
reasons  for  our  conduct.  Depart  in  peace  ;  and  in  proof  of 
our  respect,  take  with  you,  in  safety,  these  men  your  compan 
ions  in  indiscretion  ;  who,  but  for  your  sakes,  should  have 
learnt  that  we  are  not  to  be  insulted  with  impunity." 

At  these  words  the  three  ladies  withdrew,  without  permitting 
any  answer  ;  and  the  slaves,  conducting  the  caliph  and  his 
companions,  the  calendars,  and  the  porter  to  the  gate,  civilly 
dismissed  them.  Haroun  felt  esteem  and  pity  for  the  unfor- 
tunate princes.  Without  discovering  himself,  he  offered  his 
services  to  accommodate  them  for  the  rest  of  the  night  ;  which 
being  thankfully  accepted,  he  committed  them  to  the  care  of 
Mefrour,  and  returned  with  Giafar  to  his  palace. 

ID  the  morning  the  calendars  were  introduced  to  the  caliph, 
and  Giafar  was  despatched  to  acquaint  the  ladies  that  the 
commander  of  the  Faithful  desired  to  see  them  immediately. 
They  accordingly  attended  him,  and  found  the  caliph  seated 
on  his  throne,  and  the  three  calendars  placed  on  his  right  hand 
The  ladies  having  paid  their  homage  to  the  caliph,  that  princo 
Addressed  them  with  great  benignity,  and  told  them  he  had 
on*  >f  their  guests  the  preceding  night.  The  ladies 


TSHTERTAINMENTS.  61 

covered  with  confusion ;  but  the  caliph  praised  tLeii  moders 
tion,  after  the  incivility  they  had  received.  "  I  was  then,"  said 
he,  "  a  merchant  of  Maussol,  and  deserved  your  resentment 
hut  I  trust  you  will  not  refuse  to  the  caliph,  the  satisfaction 
you  at  that  time  so  properly  withheld.  Be  pieased,  therefore 
to  relate  the  reason  of  your  whipping,  and  afterwards  weeding 
orer  the  two  bitches ;  and  why  one  of  you  has  her  breast  st 
disfigured." 

7<obeide  obeyed  the  caliph  thus :  — 

The  History  of  Zobeide. 

COMMANDER  of  the  Faithful,  my  father  was  a  merchant  of 
this  city,  who  dying  some  years  ago,  left  his  fortune  to  be 
divided  between  his  five  daughters,  of  whom  myself  and  the 
fwo  bitches  are  by  one  mother,  and  these  ladies  by  another. 

Amine  and  Safie,  being  yet  children,  continued  with  their 
mother.  My  two  elder  sisters  and  I  lived  together  in  great 
harmony.  After  some  time  they  both  married  ;  being  left  alone, 
I  employed  myself  for  amusement  in  rearing  of  silk-worms, 
and  became  so  successful  in  my  management  of  them,  that  1 
found  them  not  only  entertaining,  but  exceedingly  profitable. 

In  less  than  a  year's  time,  each  of  my  sisters  returned  to 
me  in  great  distress ;  their  husbands  having  squandered  away 
all  their  substance,  had  left  them  to  shift  for  themselves.  J 
received  them  with  kindness,  and  cheerfully  shared  with  them 
the  money  I  had  gained  by  my  silk.  As  I  had  experienced 
the  advantage  of  traffic,  I  projected  a  voyage  ;  I  bought  a  ship 
at  Balsora,  and  freighted  it ;  my  sisters  chose  to  go  with  me, 
and  we  set  sail  with  a  fair  wind. 

Some  weeks  after,  we  cast  anchor  in  a  harbor  that  presented 
itself,  with  intent  to  water  the  ship.  As  I  was  tired  with  hav- 
ing been  so  long  on  board,  I  landed  with  the  first  boat,  and 
walked  up  into  the  country.  I  soon  came  in  sight  of  a  great 
town.  When  I  arrived  there,  I  was  much  surprised  to  se« 
vast  number  *  of  people,  ir  different  postures,  but  all  immo  rable 
6 


52  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

The  merchants  were  in  their  shops,  the  soldiery  en  guard 
every  one  seemed  engaged  in  his  proper  avocation,  yet  ah 
were  become  as  stone.  At  the  royal  palace  I  found  many 
people  richly  dressed,  in  various  apartments  ;  it  was  easy  tc 
distinguish  the  king  and  queen  by  the  splendor  of  their  jewels 
and  their  crowns  of  gold.  But  the  same  fate  had  overtaken 
them  which  had  befallen  the  common  people ;  the  king,  thf 
queen,  and  their  train  of  courtiers  being  all  petrified. 

Night  drawing  on,  I  laid  down  on  a  couch.  Early  in  tht 
morning,  I  heard  the  voice  of  a  man  reading  the  Alcoran,  in 
the  same  tone  it  is  read  in  our  mosques.  I  arose  immediately, 
and  following  the  voice,  I  found  it  came  from  an  oratory,  which 
had,  as  usual,  a  niche,  that  showed  where  we  must  turn  to  say 
our  prayers.  A  comely  young  man  was  sitting  on  a  carpet 
reading  the  Alcoran  with  great  devotion.  Being  curious  to 
know  why  he  was  the  only  living  creature  in  the  town,  1 
entered  the  oratory,  and  standing  upright  before  the  niche, 
praised  God  aloud  for  having  favored  us  with  so  happy  a 
voyage. 

The  young  man  closed  his  Alcoran,  and  coming  to  me, 
desired  to  know  whence  I  came.  I  acquainted  him ;  on  which 
he  proceeded  to  tell  me  that  the  city  was  the  metropolis  of  a 
kingdom  governed  by  his  father ;  that  the  king,  and  all  hia 
subjects  were  magi,  worshippers  of  fire,  and  of  Nardoun,  the 
ancient  king  of  the  giants,  who  rebelled  against  God :  "  Though 
I  was  born,"  continued  he,  "  of  idolatrous  parents,  it  was  my 
good  fortune  to  have  a  woman-governess,  who  was  a  strict 
observer  of  the  Mohammedan  religion.  She  taught  me  Arabic 
from  the  Alcoran ;  by  her  I  was  instructed  in  the  true  religion, 
which  I  would  never  afterwards  renounce. 

"About  three  years  ago,  a  thundering  voice  was  heard 
distinctly  through  the  whole  city,  saying,  '  Inhabitants,  aban- 
don the  worship  of  Nardoun  and  of  fire,  and  worship  the  only 
God  who  showeth  mercy ! '  This  voice  was  heard  three  yean 
successively,  but  no  one  regarded  it.  At  the  end  of  the  las* 
year,  all  the  inhabitants  were  in  an  instant  changed  into 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  6A 

erery  one  in  the  posture  he  happened  to  be  ther  in.  I  alcn« 
was  preserved;  and  I  flatter  myself,  madam,  tha.  you  are  sen! 
here  to  deliver  me  from  a  solitary  life,  which  I  must  own  i* 
rery  irksome  to  me." 

I  readily  agreed  to  take  him  to  Bagdad.  I  even  ventured 
to  promise  him  an  introduction  to  your  majesty,  the  great  vice- 
gerent of  the  prophet,  whose  disciple  he  was.  I  conducted 
him  to  the  vessel,  wh  ch  we  loaded  deeply  with  gold,  jewels, 
ttnl  money,  and  having  recruited  our  water,  we  set  sail 
homewards. 

The  young  prince  proved  the  most  amiable  and  agreeable 
of  men.  He  soli  cited  me  very  earnestly  to  become  his  wife, 
which  I  promised  on  our  arrival  here.  But  my  sisters  had 
each  become  enamored  with  him :  this  declaration  of  his 
reduced  them  to  despair.  Envy  and  jealousy  took  possession 
of  their  breasts,  and  in  the  night  they  threw  us  both  over- 
board. 

The  prince  was  drowned  :  I  had  the  good  fortune  to  escape, 
and  by  morning  was  driven  on  shore  on  an  uninhabited  island. 
I  dried  my  clothes,  and  went  in  search  of  some  fruits  to  support 
me,  when  I  saw  a  winged  serpent,  which  was  seized  by  a 
larger  serpent,  who  endeavored  to  devour  it.  Moved  by  com- 
passion, I  had  the  courage  to  take  up  a  stone  and  fling  it  at 
the  great  serpent,  which  I  hit  on  the  head  and  killed ;  the 
other,  finding  itself  at  liberty,  took  wing  and  flew  away. 

In  a  short  time  after,  a  black  woman,  of  good  figure,  came 
towards  me  leading  two  bitches.  "I  am,"  said  she,  "the 
serpent,  whom  you  so  lately  delivered  from  my  mortal  enemy 
in  return  for  that  service,  with  the  assistance  of  other  fairies, 
my  companions,  I  have  already  conveyed  the  valuable  lading 
of  your  vessel  to  your  storehouses  in  Bagdad ;  and  to  punish 
ihe  cruelty  and  ingratitude  of  your  sisters,  I  have  transformed 
them  into  these  two  bitches."  Having  said  this,  she  took  them 
under  one  arm  and  me  under  the  other,  and  in  an  instant  set 
is  down  in  my  house.  Before  she  left  me,  she  said  :  "  If  you 
would  not  share  the  fate  of  your  wicked  sisters,  I  command 


«4  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

you  in  the  name  of  him  who  governs  the  sea,  that  you  every 
night  give  each  of  them  an  hundred  lashes  with  a  rod."  I 
wn  obliged  to  obey  this  severe  order,  but  my  resentment 
having  long  since  subsided,  your  majesty  saw  with  what 
reluctance  I  comply  with  it. 

Zobeide  having  finished  her  story,  Amine  rose  to  satisfy  the 
inquiries  of  the  Caliph. 

History  of  Amine. 

COMMANDER  of  the  Faithful,  said  Amine,  my  life,  till 
lately,  contained  no  extraordinary  event.  I  married  early; 
and  on  the  death  of  my  husband,  which  happened  very  soon 
after,  I  found  myself  very  wealthy,  and  determined  to  continue 
independent. 

But  one  day,  as  I  was  engaged  in  my  affairs,  a  venerable 
lady,  whom  I  had  noticed  at  the  public  baths,  came  to  my 
house  to  request  a  favor  of  me.  "  My  daughter,"  said  she,  "  is 
to  be  married  to-day.  The  family  of  the  bridegroom  is  numer- 
ous and  respectable ;  but  alas  !  we  are  strangers  in  Bagdad. 
Vouchsafe,  then,  dear  lady,  to  be  present  at  the  wedding. 
The  ladies  of  your  city  will  not  despise  us  when  they  see  one 
of  your  quality  do  us  so  much  honor." 

I  readily  consented,  and  she  conducted  me  to  a  handsome 
house,  where  I  was  received  by  a  young  lady,  whom  I  supposed 
to  be  the  bride.  After  a  few  compliments,  she  said :  "  You  are 
invited  here,  madam,  to  assist  at  a  wedding ;  but  I  hope  you 
will  be  more  nearly  concerned  in  one.  My  brother,  who  is 
rich,  honorable,  and  handsome,  has  fallen  in  love  with  the 
fame  of  your  beauty,  and  will  be  miserable  if  you  do  not  take 
pity  on  him  ! "  After  saying  this,  she  clapped  her  hands,  and 
a  young  man  entered,  whose  graceful  carriage  and  good 
figure  strongly  recommended  him.  Not  to  be  tedious  to  your 
majesty,  I  suffered  myself  to  be  overcome  by  their  entreaties, 
»nd  became  myself  a  bride,  where  I  thought  of  being  only  a 
g  jest. 

My  new  husband  exacted  a  promise  from  me  that  I  would 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  61 

not  speak  to  or  be  seen  by  any  man  but  himself.  Socrj  after 
our  marriage,  I  had  occasion  for  some  stuffs;  and  having 
asked  my  husband's  leave,  I  took  the  old  lady  I  spoke  of 
(who  had  been  his  nurse)  and  two  slaves  to  the  shops  to  buj 
some.  The  old  lady  recommended  me  to  a  merchant,  at  whose 
shop  we  chose  what  we  wanted.  I  had  kept  my  veil  close,  and 
now  desired  the  old  woman  to  ask  the  price  of  them.  Tha 
ir?rchant  told  her  he  would  not  sell  them  for  money,  but  if  I 
would  permit  him  to  kiss  my  cheek,  he  would  present  me  with 
them.  I  directed  the  nurse  to  reprehend  him  for  his  audacity , 
but  instead  of  obeying  me,  she  remonstrated  in  his  favor.  As 
I  was  much  pleased  with  the  stuffs,  which  the  merchant  would 
not  let  me  have  on  any  other  terms,  I  foolishly  consented. 

The  old  woman  and  the  slaves  stood  up,  that  no  one  should 
see  it ;  I  put  by  my  veil ;  but  instead  of  a  kiss,  the  merchant 
bit  me  till  the  blood  came. 

The  pain  and  the  surprise  was  so  great  that  I  swooned 
away.  The  merchant  took  that  opportunity  to  abscond ;  and 
when  I  recovered,  my  servants  with  difficulty  got  me  home. 
In  the  evening  my  husband  came  to  me,  and  seeing  the  wound 
in  my  cheek,  asked  me  the  cause  of  it.  I  was  confounded ; 
yet  not  willing  to  own  the  truth,  I  said,  a  porter,  carrying  a 
load,  came  so  near  me  that  one  of  his  sticks  cut  my  cheeks. 
My  husband  was  in  a  rage.  "  To-morrow,"  said  he,  "  I  will 
give  orders  to  the  lieutenant  of  the  police  to  seize  all  those 
brutes  of  porters  and  hang  them."  Frightened  at  this,  ] 
declared  they  were  innocent.  "  How  then  came  your  cheek 
wounded  ? "  replied  he  sternly.  A  broom-seller,  said  I,  rode 
against  me,  and  pushed  me  down.  "  Indeed ! "  replied  ths 
husband,  "then  to-morrow,  the  grand  vizier  shall  have  an 
account  of  this  insolence,  and  shall  cause  all  the  broom-gel] era 
to  be  put  to  death."  Ah !  said  I,  they  are  not  guilty.  "  How, 
madam,"  replied  he,  "  what  is  all  this  ?  I  insist  on  knowing 
tin  truth  immediately."  Sir,  said  I,  I  was  taken  with  a 
giddiness  and  fell  down,  and  that  is  the  whole  matter. 

a  I  have  too  long  listened  to  your  lies  "  exclaimed  he ;  the* 


66  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

slapping  Us  hands,  three  slaves  entered,  whom  he  ordered  U 
put  me  to  death.  As  the  slaves  were  in  no  hurry  to  execute 
hit  cruel  orders,  I  had  recourse  to  entreaties  and  prayers,  and 
ihe  nurse  joined  her  supplications  in  my  favor.  At  last  he 
aaid  to  her,  "  For  your  sake  I  will  spare  her  life ;  but  think 
aot  she  shall  escape  with  impunity."  At  these  words  he 
ordered  two  of  his  slaves  to  hold  me,  while  the  third  gave  me 
so  many  blows  on  my  sides  and  breast,  with  a  little  cane,  th&t 
he  fetched  away  the  skin  and  flesh.  I  fainted  under  this 
severe  discipline.  While  I  continued  senseless,  he  caused  me 
to  be  conveyed  to  a  poor  habitation,  where  a  strange  slave 
attended  me  till  I  recovered,  and  then  left  me. 

When  I  was  able  to  walk,  I  resolved  to  go  to  my  own 
house,  but  I  found  my  husband,  hi  his  wrath,  had  caused  it 
to  be  pulled  down.  I  determined,  therefore,  to  seek  the  pro- 
tection of  my  sister  Zobeide,  who  received  me  with  kindnoss, 
and  with  whom  I  have  lived  co«*tentedly  ever  since. 

When  Amine  had  finished  her  narrative,  the  caliph  asked 
Zobeide  if  she  had  any  method  of  communication  with  the 
'airy.  "  I  have,  sir,  a  locket  of  hair,"  replied  she,  "  which  the 
fairy  left  with  me,  telling  me  I  should  one  day  want  her  pres- 
ence, and  if  I  burned  that  hair,  she  would  not  fail  to  attend 
me,  though  she  were  beyond  the  mount  Caucasus."  At  the 
request  of  the  caliph,  Zobeide  burned  the  hair :  immediately 
the  palace  began  to  shake,  and  in  a  short  time  the  fairy 
appeared  before  the  caliph,  in  the  shape  of  a  lady  richr/ 
dressed. 

"  Handsome  fairy,"  said  the  prince  to  her,  "  I  have  wished 
to  see  you,  to  entreat  you  will  release  the  two  bitches  from 
their  present  situation.  I  must  also  beg  you  will  discover  tc 
me  if  you  can,  who  was  that  barbarous  fellow  who  hatl 
treated  this  lady  with  so  much  cruelty  and  injustice.  I  only 
wonder  how  such  daring  acts  could  be  committed  in  defiance 
«f  my  authority,  and  remain  unknown  to  me." 

The  fairy  readily  consented;    and  the  two  bitches  beiijf 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  6l 

produced,  she  tojk  a  glass  of  water,  and  pronouncing  certain 
words,  she  threw  a  part  of  it  upon  them,  and  the  rest  upon 
4.mine.  Immediately  they  became  two  beautiful  women  and 
the  scars  in  Amine's  bosom  disappeared.  The  fairy  then  said 
u  Commander  of  the  Faithful,  the  unknown  husband  of  this 
lady  is  prince  Amin,  your  eldest  son.  She  had  been  impru- 
dent ;  and  her  excuses  tended  rather  to  excite  suspicions  of 
her  having  been  yet  more  faulty ;  he  is  not,  therefore,  without 
excuse.  But  now  he  has  accidentally  heard  the  whole  truth 
he  will  no  doubt  receive  her  again  to  his  heart."  At  thes* 
words,  the  fairy  saluted  the  caliph  and  disappeared. 

Prince  Amin  came  forward,  and  joyfully  accepted  Amine 
from  the  hands  of  his  father.  After  which,  the  caliph  invited 
Zobeide  to  share  the  throne  of  Persia  with  him,  and  bestowed 
her  other  three  sisters  on  the  three  calendars,  whom  he  ad 
mitted  to  his  counsels,  and  promoted  to  the  highest  dignities 
of  his  empire. 


THE    SEVEN   VOYAGES    OP   SINDBAD    THE    SAILOK. 

THERE  lived  formerly  at  Bagdad  a  poor  porter  called 
Hindbad.  One  day  when  the  weather  was  excessively  hot, 
he  was  employed  to  carry  a  very  heavy  burden :  he  went 
through  a  street  where  the  pavement  was  sprinkled  with  rose- 
water,  and  there  being  a  pleasant  breeze,  he  laid  down  his 
burden  by  the  side  of  a  great  house,  to  rest  himself.  He 
enjoyed  the  agreeable  smell  of  the  perfumes,  he  heard  the 
sound  of  many  instruments  playing  in  concert,  and  saw  a 
grand  feast  about  to  be  served  up.  As  he  seldom  passed  that 
way,  he  knew  not  whose  house  it  was  ;  but  asking,  was  told 
that  it  belonged  to  Smabad  the  sailor. 

While  Hindbad  thought  this  handsome  building  belonged 
to  some  prince,  he  was  not  disturbed  ;  but  hearing  it  was  the 
property  of  a  person  whom  he  supposed  had  been  of  his  own 
degree,  envy  took  possession  of  his  breast.  He  returned  sul- 
lenly to  his  load,  and  murmured  against  providence,  who  ha£ 


&  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

fiven  tc  lac  happy  Sindbad  a  life  of  ease  and  luxury,  while  tc 
him  was  allotted  fatigue  and  poverty.  While  he  was  express- 
ing refections  like  these  aloud,  two  of  the  servants  came  to 
him  and  desired  him  to  follow  them,  as  their  master,  Sindbad, 
wanted  to  speak  with  him. 

HiLdbad  did  not  very  willingly  obey  them ;  but  as  resistance 
was  in  vain,  he  suffered  himself  to  be  led  by  them  into  a  great 
hall,  where  there  was  a  numerous  company  at  dinnei  At  tha 
upper  end  of  the  table  there  sat  a  comely,  venerable  gentle- 
man, with  a  long  white  beard:  this  grave  gentleman  was 
Sindbad.  The  porter  being  introduced  to  him,  Sindbad  caused 
him  to  sit  down  at  his  right  hand,  and  served  him  himself 
with  excellent  wine  and  the  choicest  dainties. 

When  dinner  was  over,  Sindbad  began  to  converse  with  the 
porter ;  and  calling  him  brother,  after  the  manner  of  the  Ara- 
bians, when  they  are  familiar  with  one  another,  he  asked  him 
what  it  was  he  had  said  awhile  ago  in  the  street?  —  for  Sind- 
bad had  chanced  to  overhear  his  murmurings.  The  porter  sur- 
prised at  the  question,  hung  down  his  head,  and  replied,  "  J 
confess,  sir,  my  weariness  put  me  out  of  humor,  and  I  uttered 
some  indiscreet  words,  which  I  humbly  request  you  to  par- 
don." "  I  did  not  send  for  you/'  replied  Sindbad,  "  in  anger 
but  as  I  find  you  murmer  at  my  having  obtained  the  affluence 
I  enjoy,  that  you  may  not  continue  to  offend  God  by  envy  and 
discontent,  I  will  relate  to  you  the  adventures  which  have 
gained  me  all  this  wealth,  and  I  am  inclined  to  think  you 
would  rather  continue  in  your  safe  and  easy  poverty,  than  be 
exposed  to  the  dangers  I  have  gone  through,  though  they  h&ve 
BO  greatly  enriched  me." 

Sindbad's  First   Vbyaye. 

MY  father  left  me  a  decent  fortune,  which  I,  like  manj 
inconsiderate  young  men,  greatly  diminished.  Recollecting 
myself  in  time,  I  engaged  in  traffic  ;  and  joining  with  se\  era! 
ather  merchants,  we  freighted  a  vessel,  and  set  out  on  a 
trading  Foyage.  One  day,  while  we  were  under  sail,  we  wert 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 

becalmed  close  to  a  little  island,  almost  even  with  the 
of  the  water,  which  resembled  a  green  meadow.  The  captain 
ordered  the  sails  to  be  furled,  and  permitted  those  who  chose 
it,  to  go  on  shore ;  of  whom  I  was  one. 

We  had  not  long  landed,  when,  on  a  sudden  tie  island 
trembled,  and  shook  us  terribly.  The  people  on  board  saw 
our  situation,  and  called  out  to  us  to  reembark  directly,  a* 
what  we  had  taken  for  an  island,  was  only  the  back  of  s 
prodigious  fish.  The  nimblest  of  us  got  into  the  sloop,  otheru 
jumped  into  the  sea,  and  swam  towards  the  vessel.  For  my 
part,  I  was  still  on  the  back  of  the  fish,  when  it  dived  into  the 
sea.  I  got  hold  of  a  piece  of  timber  which  we  had  brought 
to  make  a  fire  with,  and  by  this  assistance  was  preserved  from 
sinking,  buj;  found  it  impossible  to  recover  the  ship. 

I  continued  in  this  situation  till  the  next  day,  when  1  made 
land,  much  fatigued.  As  I  advanced  from  the  shore,  I  saw  a 
very  fine  mare  feeding:  I  went  towards  her,  when  sundry 
voices  called  out  to  me,  which  seemed  to  come  from  uiider  the 
ground.  Looking  around,  I  saw  a  hollow,  sunk  in  the  earth, 
in  which  were  several  men,  who  received  me  with  great  kind- 
neas,  and  gave  me  every  necessary  refreshment.  They  were 
grooms  to  king  Mihrage.  Every  year  at  that  season  they 
brought  thither  the  king's  mares,  and  fastened  them  one  by 
one  to  a  stake,  till  they  were  covered  by  a  horse  that  came  out 
of  the  sea,  and  who,  after  having  done  so,  endeavored  to 
destroy  the  mare,  but  was  prevented  and  driven  away  by  th« 
shouting  of  the  grooms.  The  foals,  so  procured,  proving  very 
excellent,  were  preserved  for  the  king's  use  only. 

Had  I  been  a  day  later,  I  must  have  perished;  for  the 
island  was  very  barren,  and  they  had  so  nearly  finished  theif 
business  for  that  year,  that  they  set  out  on  their  return  thd 
next  morning.  On  our  arrival  they  presented  me  to  the  king, 
who,  having  heard  my  story,  ordered  me  to  be  supplied  with 
everything  I  stood  in  need  of. 

There  belongs  to  this  king  an  island  named  Cassel ;  they 
Assured  me  that  every  night  a  noise  of  drums  was  hoard 


70  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

there ;  whence  the  mariners  fancy  it  is  tie  residence  9! 
Degial.*  I  had  a  desire  to  see  chis  wonderful  place,  and  i» 
my  way  thither,  saw  fishes  of  an  hundred  and  two  hundred 
cubits  long;  far  from  being  dangerous,  they  fly  from  the  least 
noise.  I  saw  also  other  fishes  about  a  cubit  long,  which  had 
heads  like  owls. 

As  I  was  one  day  at  the  port,  after  my  return,  I  cast  my 
eye  on  some  bales  that  were  unloaded  from  a  vessel  newly 
arrived,  and  presently  knew  them  to  be  mine.  I  sought  the 
captain,  whom  I  instantly  remembered ;  but  it  was  some  time 
before  I  could  persuade  him  that  I  was  Sindbad,  so  confident 
was  he  that  he  had  seen  me  perish.  When  he  was  convinced, 
he  restored  me  my  cargo,  which,  through  the  favor  of  the 
king,  I  sold  to  very  great  advantage.  I  loaded  my  part  of 
the  vessel  with  the  best  produce  of  the  country ;  and  had  a 
safe  and  speedy  passage  home,  where  I  disposed  of  my  mer- 
chandize to  the  value  of  ten  thousand  sequins.f  I  then  bouglit 
slaves  of  both  sexes,  built  me  a  fine  house,  resolving  to  forget 
the  miseries  I  had  suffered,  and  to  enjoy  myself. 

Sindbad  stopped  here,  and  ordered  the  musicians  to  renew 
the  concert.  In  the  evening  he  gave  the  porter  a  purse  of  an 
hundred  sequins,  and  bid  him  come  the  next  day  to  hear  more 
of  his  adventures.  Hindbad  returned  home  to  his  family 
blessing  God  for  what  he  had  received  at  the  hands  of 
Sindbad. 

SindbacFs  Second   Voyage. 

I  HAD  no  intention  of  venturing  the  sea  again ;  but  I  sooii 
grew  weary,  and  ashamed  of  an  inactive  life.  I  embarked 
therefore  with  some  other  merchants,  and  having  been  at  sea 

*  Degial,  with  the  Mohammedans,  is  the  same  as  Antichrist  with  us. 
They  have  a  tradition  that  he  will  appear  about  the  end  of  the  world. 
«nl  conquer  all  the  earth,  except  Mecca,  Medina,  Tarsus,  and  Je- 
rusalem, which  are  to  be  preserved  by  angels,  whom  he  shall  set 
•ound  them. 

t  The  Turkish  sequin  is  about  nine  shillings  sterling. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  7l 

time,  w«  came  to  an  uninhabited  island ;  we  landed  and 
dined  very  heartily.  Finding  myself  disposed  to  sleep,  1 
withdrew  from  the  company  and  laid  myself  down  in  a 
charming  grove.  How  long  I  slept  I  know  not ;  but  when  I 
awoke  I  perceived  the  ship  under  sail,  at  such  a  distance  that 
f  soon  lost  sight  of  her. 

My  surprise  and  grief  were  inexpressible ;  but  remember* 
teg;  it  was  of  no  use  to  afflict  one's  self  when  an  evil  is 
mavoidable,  I  resolved  to  suppress  my  unavailing  sorrow. 
I  climbed  up  to  the  top  of  a  great  tree,  that  by  an  extensive 
prospect  I  might  bettei  judge  of  my  situation.  I  saw  at  no 
great  distance  a  large  white  body ;  when  I  approached  it,  I 
found  it  so  very  smooth,  that  it  was  impossible  to  climb  it 
It  was  fifty  paces  round,  and  of  a  prodigious  height.  While  1 
was  examining  this  phenomenon,  the  sky  on  a  sudden  became 
dark,  and  looking  up,  I  saw  a  bird  of  a  monstrous  size  prepar- 
mg  to  settle.  I  now  knew  that  the  bird  was  a  roc,  and  the 
tmooth  white  substance  was  its  egg. 

The  bird  alighted,  and  sat  over  the  egg  to  hatch  it.  As  I  per- 
ceived her  coming,  I  crept  close  to  the  egg,  so  that  I  had  before 
me  one  of  the  legs  of  the  bird,  which  was  as  big  as  the  trunk 
of  a  tree.  I  tied  myself  strongly  to  it  with  the  cloth  that  went 
?ound  my  turban,  in  hopes  that  when  the  roc*  flew  away,  she 
would  carry  me  to  some  place  where  I  should  find  inhabitants 
Accordingly,  the  next  morning,  when  she  took  wing,  she  raised 
me  with  her ;  and  when  she  alighted,  I  quickly  untied  the 
knot,  which  I  had  scarce  done,  when  she  flew  awa}  agaii, 
taking  in  her  bill  a  serpent  of  a  monstrous  length. 

The  place  where  I  was  left  was  a  deep  valley,  surrounded 
on  all  sides  with  precipices  so  steep  that  it  was  impossible 
to  climb  them.  I  soon  found  that  I  was  no  way  benefited  by 
Ihe  exchange.  As  I  walked  along,  I  perceived  the  ground  wi^j 

*  Mark  Paul  in  his  travels,  and  Father  Martini  in  his  History  of 
China,  speak  of  this  bird,  and  say  that  it  will  take  uj>  an  elepb  ant  <>?  i 
rhinoceros. 


r2  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

ftrewed  with,  diamonds ;  I  examined  them  ^vith  mud  pleasure, 
but  presently  saw  objects  which  at  once  put  an  end  to  all  my 
agreeable  ideas,  and  terrified  me  exceedingly.  These  were  a 
number  of  serpents,  each  capable  of  swallowing  an  elephant. 
They  had  now  retired  to  their  dens,  to  avoid  their  enemy  the 
roc ;  but  I  had  no  doubt  I  should  have  everything  to  fear  from 
them  at  night. 

I  immediately  sought  a  secure  retreat,  and  was  so  lucky  as 
tc  find  one.  In  the  evening,  as  I  expected,  all  the  serpents  left 
their  dens,  and  came  hissing  about  my  retreat.  Though  they 
could  not  hurt  me,  they  put  me  into  such  extreme  fear  that  I 
could  not  sleep.  When  the  day  came,  the  serpents  retired, 
and  I  came  out  of  my  cave  trembling ;  and  I  can  truly  say, 
that  I  walked  a  long  time  upon  diamonds,  without  having  the 
least  inclination  to  touch  them  ;  at  last,  spent  with  fatigue  and 
want  of  rest,  I  was  obliged  to  lay  down  to  sleep ;  but  had 
scarce  shut  my  eyes  when  I  was  awakened  by  a  great  piece 
of  fresh  meat  falling  close  to  me ;  at  the  same  time  I  saw 
others  fall  from  the  rocks  in  different  places. 

This  circumstance  gave  me  immediate  hope  of  escape.  I 
had  always  considered  as  fabulous  the  stories  told  of  the  valley 
of  diamonds,  and  of  the  stratagems  used  by  merchants  to  get 
jewels  from  thence ;  but  now  I  found  them  true.  This  valley, 
from  the  height,  and  from  the  rocks  which  bound  it,  being 
utterly  inaccessible  to  man,  the  adventurers  come  as  near  as 
may  be  at  the  time  eagles  hatch  their  young,  and  by  the  help 
of  machines,  throw  very  large  pieces  of  raw  flesh  high  into 
the  air;  these  falling  upon  the  diamonds,  their  sharp  points 
enter  the  flesh,  and  they  stick  to  it ;  the  eagles,  which  are 
larger  here  than  in  any  other  country,  convey  these  pieces  of 
meat  to  their  nests,  to  feed  their  young  ;  but  the  merchants 
fnghten  away  the  old  bird,  till  they  have  examined  the  prey, 
and  take  away  the  diamonds  which  may  chance  to  stick  to  it 

I  now  no  longer  doubted  the  truth  of  this  account.  I  began 
therefore  very  deliberately  to  select  the  largest  and  clearest 
diamonds  I  could  find  ,  and  having  filled  my  provision  bag 


ENTF  Ji  I'AJNMENTS.  75 

with  thtAi,  and  secured  it  to  my  girdle,  I  took  a  piece  of  meat 
and  tying  it  to  my  back,  I  laid  down  with  my  face  to  the 
ground.  In  a  short  time  one  of  the  eagles  seized  me  and  con- 
veyed me  to  his  nest. 

As  soon  as  the  eagle  had  deposited  me,  the  merchants  an 
usual  drove  him  awaj.  Every  merchant  had  his  distinct  nest 
which  was  considered  as  his  peculiar  property.  When  the 
o^ner  of  the  nest  where  I  was  ascended  to  it  and  saw  me,  he 
was  at  first  much  frightened ;  bu*  recovering  himself,  he 
began  to  upbraid  me  with  his  disappointment ;  he  helped  me, 
notwithstanding,  to  descend,  and  introduced  me  to  the  other 
merchants,  who  heard  my  story  with  amazement. 

When  the  season  for  throwing  the  meat  was  over,  we  al1 
prepaied  to  return  to  our  several  countries.  Before  we 
parted,  I  took  aside  the  merchant  in  whose  nest  I  was  found, 
and  showed  him  the  bag  of  diamonds  I  had  selected  in  the 
valley.  I  told  him  1  considered  him  as  my  deliverer,  and 
frankly  offered  to  share  them  with  him.  He  was  astonished 
at  their  size  and  beauty  :  but  I  could  only  prevail  with  him  to 
accept  of  one,  and  that  one  of  the  smallest,  which  he  said  would 
raise  him  as  great  a  fortune  as  he  wished  for.  We  parted 
perfectly  satisfied  with  each  other,  and  I  returned  by  the  first 
ship  to  Bagdad. 

We  touched  at  the  isle  of  Roha,  where  the  trees  grow  that 
yield  camphor.  These  trees  are  so  large,  that  an  hundred 
men  may  easily  sit  under  the  shade  of  one  of  them.  They 
bore  a  hole  in  the  upper  part  of  the  tree,  whence  issues  a  juice 
which  being  received  into  a  vessel,  acquires  a  consistency,  and 
becomes  what  we  call  camphor ;  after  which,  the  tree  withers 
and  dies. 

There  is  in  this  island  the  rhinoceros,  a  creature  less  than 
the  elephant,  but  greater  than  the  buffalo.  It  has  a  horn  upon 
its  nose  about  a  cubit  long,  which  is  solid,  and  cleft  in  the  mid 
die ;  there  are  upon  it  draughts  representing  the  figures  of 
men.  The  rhinoceros  fights  with  the  elephant,  runs  his  horn  into 
ois  belly,  and  carries  him  off  in  ion  his  head  ;  but  the  blood  and 


)4  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

rat  of  the  elephant  runs  into  his  eyes,  and  makes  him  blini 
He  falls  to  the  ground,  and  what  is  very  astonishing,  the  roc 
carries  them  both  away  in  her  claws,  to  be  meat  for  her  young 
ones. 

On  my  arrival  at  Bagdad,  I  gave  large  sums  to  the  poor 
and  lived  honorably  on  the  vast  riches  I  had  acquired  with  90 
much  danger  and  fatigue. 

Sindbad  gave  the  porter  another  purse  of  an  hundred 
lequins,  and  invited  him  to  return  the  next  day. 

SindbcuT?   Third   Voyage. 

I  SOON  forgot  the  risk  I  had  run  in  my  two  former  voyages, 
and  hating  idleness,  projected  a  third.  I  embarked  accordingly, 
and  after  some  days  favorable  weather,  we  were  overtaken  by 
a  tempest,  which  drove  us  quite  out  of  our  course.  Our  vessel 
being  much  shattered,  we  were  glad  to  make  the  first  port  to 
repair  our  damages. 

We  had  scarce  begun  this  necessary  business,  when  we 
were  beset  in  a  very  extraordinary  manner.  An  innumerable 
multitude  of  little  frightful  savages  covered  all  over  with  red 
hair,  came  swimming  about  us.  They  were  not  more  than  two 
feet  high,  but  seemed  uncommonly  strong  and  nimble.  Their 
immense  number  and  horrible  appearance  so  terrified  us,  tha* 
we  suffered  them  to  board  and  take  possession  of  the  vesse) 
without  resistance.  This  was  a  lucky  circumstance  for  us? 
for  there  was  no  hope  of  escaping,  and  we  learned  afterwards, 
that  if  we  had  killed  one  of  them  they  would  nave  put  us  aU 
to  death. 

Having  taken  possession  of  the  vessel,  they  set  us  on  shores 
and  made  signs  that  we  might  go  where  we  pleased.  Aftt3i 
which  they  returned  on  board,  and  sailed  to  another  island  to 
which  they  belonged.  We  marched  together  intc  the  country 
,»nd  had  not  advanced  far,  when  we  came  to  a  great  pile  of 
buildings  which  we  entered.  We  found  the  doors  and  rooms 
uicommonly  *oft/7  but  our  attention  WAS  soon  engaged  by  a* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  76 

Appearance  equally  shocking  and  alarming.  On  entering  a 
vast  apartment,  we  found  various  fragments  of  human  bodies, 
and  a  parcel  of  spits  on  which  they  had  evidently  beeu 
roasted.  Though  we  were  much  fatigued,  we  were  about  tc 
retire  hastily  from  a  habitation  which  threatened  us  so  dread' 
fully,  when  all  pew  or  of  escape  was  taken  from  us,  by  (h« 
presence  of  the  owner  of  the  mansion. 

He  was  a  tremendous  black  giant,  as  high  as  a  tall  p&lin- 
tree,  with  only  one  eye  in  the  middle  of  his  forehead,  which 
looked  as  red  as  a  burning  coal ;  his  teeth  and  nails  were  long 
and  sharp,  and  his  mouth  resembled  that  of  a  horse.  The 
sight  of  so  frightful  a  figure  rendered  us  immovable  with 
horror.  After  surveying  us  for  some  time,  he  took  me  up  by 
the  nape  of  the  neck,  and  felt  my  body  as  a  butcher  would  his 
sheep.  Finding  me  very  thin,  he  set  me  down  and  took  up 
another ;  at  last,  laying  hands  on  our  captain  who  was  fat,  he 
thrust  a  long  spit  through  him,  and  kindling  a  fire,  he  roasted 
and  ate  him.  After,  which  he  retired  to  an  adjoining  room, 
where  he  slept,  and  snored  all  night  like  thunder.  In  the 
morning  he  got  up,  went  out,  and  left  us  in  his  dwelling. 

Our  distress  may  easily  be  imagined.  For  some  time  we 
abandoned  ourselves  to  despair.  But  finding  we  were  not 
confined,  we  divided  ourselves  into  small  parti  38,  and  sought 
various  hiding-places,  where  we  vainly  hoped  to  continue  in 
safety.  In  the  evening,  the  giant  found  out  all  our  retreats, 
and  collecting  us  together,  drove  us  before  him  into  his  habita- 
tion, where  another  of  our  companions  fell  a  sacrifice  to  hii 
voracious  appetite  ;  after  which  he  retired,  and  slept  as  before 

The  next  day  we  renewed  our  lamentations,  and  some  of 
the  company  began  to  talk  of  throwing  themselves  into  th* 
»ea,  rather  than  die  so  strange  a  death.  I  reminded  them  that 
we  were  forbidden  to  destroy  ourselves.  That  as  there  was  a 
great  deal  of  timber  floating  on  the  coast,  we  might  make 
small  floats  to  carry  us  to  sea  ;  and  though  the  risk  would  be 
£reat,  yet  our  present  situation  was  still  more  desperate.  We 
'«t  about  them  immediately  ;  but  just  as  they  v-  ire 


f*  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

Jie  night  appioached     The  giant  again  conducted  us  to  h» 
»vern,  and  repeated  his  cruelty. 

While  we  were  busy  in  preparing  our  floats,  I  proposed  a 
«cheme  to  my  companions  to  revengp  ourselves  of  this  moo* 
*ter,  in  case  we  were  obliged,  as  I  feared  we  should  be,  to  past 
%nother  night  in  his  power.  Accordingly,  when  we  heard  him 
more,  ten  of  the  boldest  of  us  took  each  a  spit,  and  making 
the  points  redhot  in  the  embers  of  the  fire  where  he  had 
roasted  our  friends,  we  thrust  them  all  at  once  into  his  eye, 
and  blinded  him.  He  awoke  in  great  agonies,  and  making  a 
frightful  outcry,  he  felt  about,  in  hopes  of  sacrificing  us  to  his 
fury :  but  we  took  care  to  be  out  of  his  reach ;  and  finding 
he  sought  for  us  in  vain,  he  groped  for  the  gate,  and  went  out, 
howling  dreadfully. 

We  hastened  to  the  sea-side,  and  got  our  floats  into  the 
water ;  but  as  it  was  jet  night,  we  agreed  not  to  put  to  sea 
till  daybreak.  We  were  not  without  hope  that  our  enemy, 
whose  howling  we  still  heard,  might  die ;  in  which  case  we 
need  not  risk  our  lives  upon  the  floats,  but  stay  till  a  better 
conveyance  might  be  made.  Day  had  scarcely  appeared, 
when  we  found  it  necessary  to  put  to  sea  with  all  possible 
haste ;  for  we  saw  the  blinded  giant  coming  towards  us,  led 
by  two  others  of  his  own  species,  as  large  and  terrible  as 
himself. 

We  rowed  off*  immediately ;  and  having  got  a  little  way 
from  shore  began  to  congratulate  each  other  on  our  escaper 
But  we  were  deceived  ;  for  as  soon  as  the  giants  saw  us,  they 
ran  to  the  adjacent  rocks,  and  tearing  away  huge  masses  of 
(tone,  they  threw  them  after  us,  and  destroyed  every  float, 
•ar  :ept  the  one  on  which  I  was  with  two  others.  We  were  so 
fortunate  as  to  get  out  of  their  reach,  and  we  thought  ourselves 
Siore  so,  when,  the  next  day,  we  made  an  island,  abounding 
with  excellent  fruit,  which  greatly  refreshed  us. 

But  alas !  another  danger  awaited  us,  no  less  fatal  ana 
horrid  than  that  which  we  had  fled  from.  As  night  approached, 
*e  took  refuge  in  a  cavern  * e  had  discovered,  and  fell  asleep ; 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  Tt 

but  weie  «ton  awakened  by  the  approach  of  a  prodigious 
serpent,  who  seizing  one  of  my  companions  notwithstanding 
his  utmost  efforts,  crushed  his  bones  to  pieces  and  swallowed 
him  up  before  us :  after  which  the  monster  retired,  leaving  us 
anhurt,  but  terrified  beyond  expression 

The  day  following  we  passed  in  fruitless  endeavors  to  escape 
from  this  new  distress.  But  the  tide  having  driven  our  float 
among  some  concealed  rocks,  we  had  not  strength  to  disengage 
it ;  and  were  obliged,  by  the  approach  of  night,  to  seek  shelter 
on  land.  To  avoid  the  serpent,  we  sought  out  a  very  high 
tree,  which  we  climbed  almost  to  the  top.  In  a  short  time  the 
tremendous  monster  appeared,  hissing  horribly.  He  came 
immediately  to  our  tree ;  and  winding  himself  round  the 
trunk,  he  ascended  with  much  ease,  till  he  reached  my  com 
panion,  who  fell  an  unresisting  sacrifice  to  his  voracity. 

I  remained  for  this  time  in  safety,  the  serpent  retiring  when 
he  had  devoured  my  comrade.  In  the  morning  I  descended 
from  the  tree,  and  passed  the  day  in  a  state  of  stupefying 
horror.  Towards  evening  I  began  to  recollect  my  situation.  1 
gathered  together  a  large  quantity  of  dry  faggot-wood,  with 
which  I  formed  a  circle  round  the  tree.  The  serpent  came  at 
the  usual  hour,  but  was  prevented  by  the  rampart  I  had  made, 
from  approaching  me.  He  continued  attempting  to  force  his 
way  till  day  appeared,  when  he  retired. 

Though  I  had  reason  to  be  satisfied  with  my  escape,  yet  the 
terror  of  my  situation,  and  even  beyond  that,  the  poisonous 
breath  of  the  serpent  had  made  the  night  inexpressibly  terri- 
ble. Rather  than  pass  such  another,  I  determined  if  1  could 
not  remove  the  float,  to  tear  off  a  single  plank  and  put  to  sea 
upon  it.  I  went  down  to  the  shore  to  execute  this  purpose, 
when  I  saw  a  ship  at  a  considerable  distance.  I  presently 
loosed  my  turban,  and  displaying  the  linen,  made  signal  of  dis- 
tress. Fortunately  the  captain  perceived  me,  and  ser-ung  a 
boat  for  me,  brought  me  safely  on  board. 

M¥  joy  at  this  deliverance  could  only  be  equalled  by  th« 
}f  the  captain  and  merchants,  who  heard    nj 

7» 


f8  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

dtory  with  wonder,  and  relieved  my  necessities  with  gruat  lib 
erality.  Tht>  ship  was  of  Balsora,  but  first  bound  on  a  trading 
voyage  to  Salabat ;  I  had  reason,  therefore,  to  hope  I  should 
soon  reach  my  native  country,  though  not  with  my  usual 
increase  of  fortune.  In  this  last  expectation  I  was  agreeablj 
disappointed ;  for  on  opening  the  cargo,  when  we  arrived  at 
Salabat,  the  captain  who  was  become  much  attached  to  me, 
proposed  that  I  should  undertake  the  management  of  a  par1 
if  the  cargo,  which  had  belonged  to  a  merchant  who  had  sailed 
en  board,  but  was  dead.  On  receiving  the  bales  into  my  pos- 
session, I  found  they  were  entered  in  my  own  name,  and  that 
I  was  actually  on  board  the  same  vessel  in  which  I  had  sailed 
on  my  second  voyage. 

The  captain  soon  remembered  me,  and  restored  very  readily 
all  my  goods,  which  he  had  greatly  improved.  Thus  I  became 
unexpectedly  enriched  by  this  voyage.  I  distributed  largely 
af  my  gains  to  my  friends  and  the  poor,  and  had  enough  to 
buy  another  considerable  estate.  To-morrow,  continued  Sind- 
bad,  presenting  the  porter  with  another  purse,  come  and  hear 
my  next  adventure. 

u  f 
Sindbad's  Fourth    Voyage. 

INDUSTRY  was  now  become  habitual  to  me ;  I  soon  fitted 
out  another  vessel,  and  again  set  sail.  After  several  weeks  of 
fine  weather,  a  furious  tempest  drove  our  vessel  on  a  strange 
shore.  The  cargo  and  most  of  the  crew  were  lost,  and  those 
who  escaped  were  in  the  utmost  distress. 

Next  morning  the  natives  of  the  country,  who  were  blacks, 
came  down  upon  us  in  a  body,  and  seizing  us,  drove  us  befoie 
them  a  long  way  up  the  country.  On  our  arrival  at  their 
fcwn,  they  gave  us  an  herb,  which  they  made  signs  for  us  to 
eat.  My  companions,  pressed  by  hunger,  readily  obeyed ;  but 
I,  perceiving  they  themselves  ate  none  of  it,  and  expecting 
no  good  from  such  inhospitable  hands,  concealed  what  they 
ijave  me,  and  only  pretended  to  eat  it. 

They  now  set  us  at  liberty,  and  gave  us  plenty  of  rice  an/ 


ENTERTAINJVTENTS.  "* 

)ther  provisions,  of  which  they  themsehes  also  partoofc 
While  1  was  at  a  loss  to  account  for  this  behavior,  I  found,  on 
addressing  myself  to  my  companions,  that  every  one  of  them 
had  lost  his  understanding :  so  baneful  was  the  effect  of  the 
h?rb  they  had  first  eaten. 

Our  masters  perceived  no  difference  between  me  and  my 
comrades.  They  gave  us  great  abundance  of  focd,  of  which 
my  unfortunate  shipmates  ate  greedily,  and  soon  became  fat. 
Then  was  the  mystery  of  our  fate  made  plain.  The  blackf 
were  cannibals  ;  and  having  first  deprived  us  all,  as  they  sup- 
posed, of  our  reason,  they  fatted  us  up  as  delicacies  for  their 
inhuman  feasts.  My  companions  soon  fell  victims  to  theii 
cruelty.  But  for  me,  partly  from  the  horror  of  my  situation, 
and  partly  from  my  own  care  in  eating  no  more  than  was 
necessary  to  preserve  life,  I  grew  every  day  leaner.  The 
blacks,  therefore,  put  off  my  destiny  to  a  future  time. 

The  barbarians,  not  doubting  but  I  was  bereft  of  under- 
standing,  allowed  me  a  great  deal  of  liberty ;  one  day  on  some 
particular  occasion,  all  the  inhabitants  went  out  of  the  town 
together,  except  a  few  feeble  old  people  of  whom  I  was  in  no 
fear.  I  instantly  seized  the  lucky  moment  to  escape;  and 
disregarding  the  outcries  of  those  who  remained  in  the  town, 
I  set  off  with  all  possible  speed,  and  gained  some  neighboring 
woods  which  afforded  me  food  and  shelter. 

I  travelled  many  days,  avoiding  with  great  care  any  placo 
which  seemed  to  be  inhabited.  At  length  I  came  near  to  the 
sea,  and  saw  some  white  people  gathering  pepper,  which  I 
took  for  a  good  omen.  I  went  among  them  without  scruple, 
wid  was  overjoyed  to  hear  them  speak  Arabic. 

These  people  received  me  very  kindly,  and  when  they  ha<? 
laden  their  ships  with  pepper,  they  took  me  with  them  to  fheii 
own  country,  and  introduced  me  to  their  king.  I  was  so  wsll 
treated  by  my  new  protectors,  that  I  soon  recovered  my  healtL 
and  spirits.  I  became  a  favorite  with  the  king  ;  and  a  trivial 
matter  greatly  increased  my  influence  with  hiro.  I  observed 
tLat  the  prince  and  all  his  courtiers  rode  llmr  horses  without 


UQ  ARABIAN   N1G41& 

saddle,  bridle,  or  stirrups.  I  found  workmen,  and  giving  them 
proper  models,  I  caused  all  these  articles  to  be  made,  and  pre- 
sented them  to  the  king,  who  was  highly  pleased  with  them 
I  made  others  for  all  the  principal  courtiers,  and  introduced 
several  other  mechanical  arts  which  were  familiar  to  me,  but 
<3ntirely  unknown  in  that  country. 

By  these  means  I  conciliated  the  favor  both  of  the  prince 
and  people.  The  king  not  only  made  me  very  considerable 
presents,  but  being  desirous  I  should  settle  in  his  country,  ha 
gave  me  for  a  wife  one  of  the  richest  and  most  beautiful 
ladies  of  his  court.  I  durst  not  oppose  the  royal  pleasure  ;  I 
received  the  lady,  therefore,  with  seeming  joy,  and  lived  with 
her  in  much  harmony.  But  I  could  not  forget  my  native 
country,  nor  suppress  a  wish  to  make  my  escape  and  return 
thither. 

While  these  thoughts  took  up  much  of  my  attention,  the 
wife  of  a  neighbor,  with  whom  I  had  become  intimate,  died. 
I  went  to  comfort  my  friend,  and  saluting  him  in  the  usual 
manner,  I  wished  him  a  long  life.  "  Alas ! "  said  he,  "  I  have 
not  an  hour  to  live  ;  I  must  be  buried  presently  with  my  wife. 
Do  you  not  know,"  continued  he,  "  that  it  is  the  law  of  this 
country,  a  law  on  no  account  ever  violated,  that  the  living 
husband  is  interred  with  the  dead  wife ;  and  the  living  wife 
with  the  dead  husband  ?  " 

While  he  was  talking  thus  with  me,  his  kindred,  friends,  and 
neighbors  came  to  assist  at  the  funeral.  They  dressed  the 
deceased  in  her  gayest  apparel,  and  ornamented  her  with  all 
her  jewels ;  and  having  placed  her  in  an  open  coffin,  they 
l>egan  their  inarch  to  the  place  of  burial,  the  husband  walking 
at  the  head  of  the  company.  They  went  up  a  high  mountain, 
and  near  the  summit  of  it,  they  came  to  a  large  stone  which 
covered  the  mouth  of  a  very  deep  pit.  Having  raised  the 
§  tone,  they  let  down  the  corpse ;  the  husband  then  employed 
his  friends,  and  suffered  himself  to  be  placed  in  another  open 
coffin,  with  a  pitcher  of  water,  and  seven  little  loaves,  ani  »vaa 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  8l 

let  down  in  the  same  manner.    The  ceremoiy  being  ovei,  thej 
covered  the  hole  with  a  stone,  and  returned  to  the  city. 

Though  I  was  struck  with  terror  and  astonishment  at  thii 
barbarous  transaction,  the  rest  of  the  company  were  entirely 
unmoved.  Accustomed  to  it  from  Lieir  earliest  infancy,  they 
regarded  it  as  a  matter  of  course.  1  thought  the  law  so  absurd^ 
as  well  as  cruel,  that  I  ventured  to  speak  my  sentiments  en 
it  to  the  king  ;  but  I  found  his  majesty  immovably  prejudif  ed 
in  its  favor.  "  It  is  a  usage  here,"  said  he,  "  as  universal  as 
it  is  ancient ;  w  3  have  no  trace  how  early  it  began,  nor  a 
single  instance  of  an  exception  from  it,  from  the  sovereign 
to  the  meanest  peasant."  Strangers,  I  hope,  replied  I,  are  not 
subject  to  this  barbarous  law.  "  Indeed  they  are,"  said  the 
king,  smiling,  "  if  they  marry  in  this  country." 

From  that  hour  I  became  the  prey  of  continual  apprehen- 
sion. Every  little  indisposition  of  my  wife,  however  trifling, 
alarmed  me.  I  renewed  with  redoubled  earnestness  my 
endeavors  to  escape ;  but,  as  if  my  conversation  with  the 
king  had  excited  his  suspicions,  I  found  it  impossible  to  elude 
the  spies  which  everywhere  surrounded  me.  In  a  short  time 
all  these  apprehensions  were  realized.  My  wife  fell  sick,  and 
in  a  very  few  days  died. 

Judge  of  my  feelings  on  this  dismal  occasion.  Flight  or 
resistance  were  alike  impracticable.  The  body  was  imme- 
diately prepared  for  interment ;  the  cavalcade  began,  and  I 
was  obliged  to  lead  the  procession.  On  our  arrival  at  the 
fatal  pit,  I  begged  leave  to  address  the  king  and  his  court, 
who  in  honor  to  me  attended  the  funeral.  It  was  granted,  but 
to  no  purpose.  In  vain  I  threw  myself  at  the  monarch's  feet 
pleading  my  past  services.  In  vain  I  harangued  the  peopk 
on  the  cruelty  and  injustice  of  subjecting  a  stranger  to  sc 
barbarous  a  law.  In  vain  I  urged  that  I  had  another  wift 
and  children  in  my  own  country ;  which  plea,  ar  good  Mussul 
men,  who  allow  polygamy,  they  ought  to  respect.  Instead  of 
being  moved  by  my  pleas  and  entreaties,  they  only  made  the 
more  haste  to  inter  the  corpse ;  and  notwithstanding  mj 


8?  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

exclamation  and  outcries,  they  foieed  me  into  the  coffin 
and  having  lowered  me  down,  they  shut  the  mouth  of  the  pit 

When  I  reached  the  bottom,  I  threw  myself  on  the  ground 
in  a  transport  of  grief.  How  many  hours  I  passed  in  tbb 
state  I  cannot  tell ;  but  as  nature  will  not  support  continue 
unguish,  I  became  at  length  by  degrees  more  composed.  1 
then  surveyed  my  situation,  and  found,  from  a  little  light 
wHch  here  and  there  broke  through  the  cavities  of  the  rock, 
that  I  was  in  a  cave  of  great  length.  Innumerable  dry  bones 
were  scattered  on  the  ground,  interspersed  with  jewels  and 
trinkets  of  immense  value,  which  had  been  buried  with  the 
different  bodies ;  but  to  my  great  surprise,  there  was  no  stench, 
which  I  was  then  at  a  loss  to  account  for. 

Notwithstanding  my  hopeless  situation,  and  the  misery  \ 
telt  in  contemplating  it,  something,  I  know  not  what,  preserved 
me  from  absolute  despair.  I  determined  to  husband  my  bread 
and  water  with  the  utmost  care ;  and  actually  managed  it  so 
that  it  supported  me  for  many  days  :  at  length  it  was  quit* 
exhausted,  and  I  was  just  resigning  myself  to  death,  when  I 
perceived  the  stone  at  the  mouth  of  the  pit  to  be  removed.  1 
had  no  doubt  but  another  funeral  was  taking  place.  Instantly 
snatching  -up  a  large  bone,  I  concealed  myself  in  the  corner 
of  the  cavern.  I  waited  till  the  second  coffin  was  let  down, 
and  the  pit  covered.  When  finding  a  woman  had  been  buried 
with  her  deceased  husband,  I  gave  the  unfortunate  wretch 
several  blows,  which  speedily  dispatched  her  ;  and  seizing  on 
fter  bread  and  water,  I  became  possessed  of  the  means  of 
preserving  my  life  a  little  longer. 

A  few  days  after,  when  this  store,  so  dreadfully  obtained, 
uras  nearly  gone,  as  I  was  sitting  on  my  coffin,  I  heard  some* 
,hing  walking  and  panting  as  it  approached  from  the  interior 
parts  of  the  cavern ;  which  being  entirely  dark,  I  had  not 
Attempted  to  explore.  On  this  occasion,  my  situation  was  too 
desperate  to  admit  of  fear  ;  and  I  determined  to  meet  it.  As 
I  advanced,  I  found  the  noise  retreat  from  me.  I  continued  to 
follow  it,  trU  at  Jength  I  found  to  my  inexpressible  joy,  tlutf 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  8il 

it  lad  me  to  a  hole  in  the  rock  big  enough  for  me  to  escapt 
through. 

When  I  arrived  in  open  day,  I  threw  myself  on  my  knee* 
and  returned  thanks  to  heaven  for  my  deliverance.  I  found  J 
was  on  the  sea-coast,  with  the  immense  mountain  in  which  J 
had  been  buried  between  me  and  the  town.  I  perceived  also 
that  the  creators  I  had  followed  was  a  sea-monster,,  who  had 
no  doubt  come  into  the  cavern  to  feed  on  the  dead  bodies ;  and 
thence  I  could  account  for  the  air  of  that  dismal  place  being 
to  little  noxious  Having  refreshed  myself  plentifully  with 
the  fruits  I  found  on  the  mountain,  I  had  the  courage  to  pene- 
trate the  cavern  again,  and  bring  away  part  of  the  jewels  and 
other  treasures  it  contained.  I  did  so  repeatedly,  for  some 
days,  and  made  up  several  bales  of  them  with  the  apparel  J 
found  in  the  cavern. 

Soon  after,  I  was  so  lucky  as  to  discover  a  ship.  My  signals 
were  seen  on  board,  and  a  boat  sent  to  my  relief,  which  con« 
veyed  me  and  my  bales  to  the  vessel.  As  neither  the  captain 
nor  crew  were  very  inquisitive,  they  were  satisfied  with  a 
loose  account  I  gave  them,  of  my  having  been  shipwrecked 
where  they  found  me.  We  had  a  short  and  agreeable  passage, 
and  arrived  safely  at  Bagdad.  I  handsomely  rewarded  my 
deliverers,  nor  did  I  forget  to  distribute  part  of  my  wealth 
among  ray  friends  and  the  necessitous. 

Sindb^d  having  finished  his  relation,  gave  the  porter  another 
purse,  and  anotLar  invitation  to  hear  his  further  adventures. 


Sindbcrfs  Fifth    Voyage. 

l*r  tnis  time  my  name  oecame  celebrated  as  a  bold  naviga- 
*>r,  and  fortunate  merchant.  My  vanity  was  so  highly  gratified 
fey  these  distinctions,  that  I  determined  to  support  my  claim  to 
them  by  undertaking  another  voyage. 

Accordingly,  I  fitted  out  and  loaded  a  stout  ship,  of  larger 
burdeii  than  any  I  had  sailed  in  before.  We  had  been  several 
reeks  »t  sea  before  we  made  land,  and  at  last  touched  a1:  a 


S4  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

desext  island,  where  we  found  an  egg  of  a  roc.  There  was  • 
young  roc  in  it  almost  hatched,  as  the  bill  began  to  appear. 

As  we  had  been  for  some  time  confined  to  salt  provision^ 
the  sailors  determined  to  have  a  feast.  Accordingly,  they 
broke  the  egg  with  hatchets,  and  cutting  away  large  pieces  of 
the  young  roc,  they  roasted  them  and  regaled  themselves.  1 
earnestly  persuaded  them  in  vain  from  this  rash  measure: 
however,  when  they  had  gratified  their  desires,  they  listened 
to  my  advice ;  which  was,  to  hasten  on  board,  and  sail  directly 
away  before  the  old  roc  should  return.  We  embarked,  and 
got  under  way  with  all  diligence;  but  we  scarce  had  weighed 
anchor,  when  we  saw  the  male  and  female  rocs  appear  at  a 
distance,  like  two  large  clouds.  When  they  approached  their 
egg  and  found  it  broken,  the  noise  they  made  was  tremendous. 

They  rose  again  immediately  into  the  air,  and  flew  away, 
so  that  we  lost  sight  of  them,  and  began  to  think  we  had 
nothing  to  apprehend.  These  hopes  were  soon  at  an  end ;  in 
a  very  little  time  we  saw  them  approaching  us  slowly :  when 
they  drew  near,  we  discovered  too  plainly  the  cause  of  this 
delay;  they  carried  between  their  talons,  stones  or  rather 
rocks  of  a  prodigious  size.  When  they  came  directly  over 
our  ship,  they  hovered,  and  one  of  them  let  fall  the  stone  she 
held,  which,  by  the  dexterity  of  the  steersman,  we  evaded. 
But  the  other  roc  was  more  successful.  His  stone  fell  in  the 
middle  of  the  ship,  which  it  split  into  a  thousand  pieces. 

All  the  crew  were  either  killed  by  the  fall  of  the  stone,  ov 
sunk  very  deep  into  the  sea.  The  latter  was  my  fate ;  I  con- 
tinued so  long  under  water  that  I  was  almost  spent,  but  on 
regaining  the  surface  I  found  a  piece  of  the  wreck  near  me. 
I  immediately  got  upon  it,  and  committing  myself  to  the 
mercy  of  the  waves,  I  had  the  good  fortune  next  day  to  gei 
t>n  shore  on  an  island,  the  most  beautiful  and  fertile  I  had  evei 
leen. 

The  whole  country  appeared  a  delicious  garden,  abounding 
with  the  choicest  fruit-trees.  I  refreshed  myself  plentifully 
%nd  afterwards  resigned  myself  to  sleep.  The  next  day  J 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  8ft 

a*oke,  fully  recovered  from  my  fatigue,  but  much  grieved  for 
the  loas  of  my  companions. 

As  the  country  was  so  pleasant,  I  resolved  tc  penetrate 
further  into  it  in  search  of  inhabitants.  I  had  not  advanced 
far,  when  coming  to  the  bank  of  a  stream,  I  saw  a  little  old 
man,  who  seemed  to  be  very  weak  and  feeble.  I  saluted  him, 
which  he  returned  by  bowing  his  head ;  and  making  signs 
for  ra3  to  take  him  on  my  back,  and  curry  him  over  the  brook. 
I  thought  he  wanted  assistance,  and  readily  complied  ;  and 
when  on  the  other  side,  I  stooped  that  he  might  get  off  with 
*he  greater  ease ;  but  instead  of  doing  so,  he  clasped  his  legs 
nimbly  about  my  neck.  His  skin  appeared  as  impenetrable 
as  iron :  he  sat  astride  on  my  shoulders,  and  held  me  so  close 
that  I  thought  he  would  have  strangled  me. 

The  surprise  and  terror  of  my  situation  overcame  me.  1 
fainted  and  fell  down.  Notwithstanding  which,  the  old  man 
continued  on  my  shoulders.  When  he  found  I  had  recovered, 
he  struck  me  so  severely  with  his  feet,  that  I  was  obliged  to 
rise,  and  carry  him  where  he  pointed.  At  night  he  made  signs 
to  me  to  lay  down,  he  continuing  his  hold  about  my  neck  ;  and 
in  the  morning,  when  he  wished  to  rise,  he  struck  me  with  his 
feet,  as  a  signal  to  get  up,  with  him  on  my  shoulders. 

In  this  manner  I  continued  for  a  considerable  time,  bur- 
dened with  the  execrable  old  fellow,  who  never  left  me  for  a 
single  moment.  One  day  I  found  in  my  way  some  dry  cala- 
bashes ;  I  took  a  large  one,  and  having  cleaned  it,  I  filled  it 
with  the  juice  of  grapes,  and  set  it  in  a  convenient  place. 
Some  time  after,  I  returned  thither,  and  found  my  wine  very 
good.  I  drank  heartily  of  it,  which  r.  used  my  spirits,  and  I 
began  to  sing  and  dance  as  I  walked  along. 

The  old  man,  perceiving  what  effect  the  wine  had  upon  re  e, 
made  signs  for  me  to  give  him  some.  I  gave  him  the  calabash, 
and  he  was  so  pleased  with  the  liquor,  that  he  drank  it  all 
The  fumes  of  it  presently  got  into  his  head,  he  became  diunk, 
aud  sat  with  his  legs  much  looser  about  me  than  usual.  1 
wMzed  the  opportunity,  and  suddenly  threw  him  off.  He  id! 
g 


86  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

to  the  ground  in  a  state  of  insensibility ;   and  with  a 
atone  I  crushed  his  head  to  pieces. 

I  rejoiced  exceedingly  at  my  deliverance,  and  regaining  the 
Boa-coast,  I  met  with  the  crew  of  a  ship,  who  had  cast  anchoi 
to  take  in  water.  From  them  I  learned  that  my  late  situation 
Lad  been  more  dangerous  than  I  had  thought  it.  "  You  fell,* 
said  they,  "into  the  hands  of  the  old  man  of  the  sea,  and  aie 
the  only  one  that  ever  escaped  strangling  by  him ;  as  he  nevei 
left  any  he  had  once  mastered,  till  their  strength  was  ex 
hausted,  when  he  failed  not  to  destroy  them." 

The  captain  of  the  vessel  received  me  very  kindly,  and 
readily  gave  me  a  passage  to  the  port  he  was  bound  to.  My 
good  fortune  did  not  forsake  me.  When  we  landed,  I  was 
permitted,  through  the  interest  of  the  captain,  to  join  a  body 
of  adventurers  of  a  singular  kind.  I  had  a  large  bag  giver 
me,  and  was  advised  to  follow  the  example  of  my  companions, 
and  by  no  means  to  separate  from  them  as  i  valued  my  life. 

We  went  together  to  a  neighboring  forest,  the  trees  of  which 
were  very  straight  and  tall,  and  so  smooth  it  was  impossible 
for  any  man  to  climb  them.  As  we  drew  near  we  saw  a  great 
number  of  apes,  who  fled  from  us  and  climbed  the  trees  for 
safety.  We  pelted  the  apes  with  stones,  who  in  return  threw 
at  us  cocoa-nuts,  which  the  trees  bore  in  great  plenty ;  and 
thus,  through  the  indignation  of  the  animals,  we  were  sup- 
plied with  those  valuable  fruits,  which  our  utmost  industry 
could  not  otherwise  have  obtained. 

By  diligently  following  this  avocation,  I  soon  got  together  a 
very  considerable  cargo  of  cocoa-nuts.     I  sailed  with  these  to 
another  port,  where  I  exchanged  them  for  pepper  and  alleys 
and  after  some  tima  arrived   at   Balsora,  very  considerably 
enriched. 

To-morrow,  continued  Sindbad,  giving  the  porter  hie  cus 
tomary  present,  1  will  relate  to  you  my  next  adventure 


ENTERTAINMENT*.  8 1 

Sindbad's  Sixth    Voyage. 

SOML  lime  after  my  arrival,  a  few  merchants,  n  y  very  par 
ticulai  friends,  agreed  on  a  voyage ;  and  they  never  ceased 
importuning  me  till  I  consented  to  go  with  them. 

For  some  time  we  had  pleasant  weather.  We  sailed  mauj 
days  without  seeing  land,  but  having  a  perfect  reliance  on  oui 
2aptam,  we  were  without  uneasiness.  At  length  the  ship  was 
forced  along  by  a  strong  current :  the  moment  the  captain  per- 
ceived it,  he  exclaimed,  we  are  all  lost !  He  immediately 
ordered  all  the  sails  to  be  set  a  contrary  way,  but  in  vain ;  the 
ropes  broke  to  pieces.  The  ship,  in  spite  of  our  utmost  efforts, 
continued  to  be  forced  on  by  the  current,  till  we  came  to  the 
foot  of  a  mountain,  where  she  ran  ashore,  and  was  presently 
beat  to  pieces. 

Most  of  the  crew  perished ;  the  captain,  two  seamen,  and 
only  escaped;  and  all  but  me  were  much  bruised. 
The  captain  told  us  that  all  hope  of  escape  from  that  place 
was  vain,  as  the  current  set  in  so  strongly  to  the  shore,  that 
no  vessel  could  possibly  sail  against  it.  This  discourse  of  his 
afflicted  us  exceedingly ;  and  indeed,  what  we  saw,  too  strongly 
confirmed  it.  The  whole  shore  was  covered  with  wrecks  of 
vessels,  and  with  the  bones  of  men,  who  had  evidently  per 
ished  there.  The  incredible  quantity  of  riches  with  which  the 
strand  was  covered,  only  served  to  aggravate  our  sorrows. 
Whether  it  was  from  this  melancholy  prospect,  or  from  the 
bruises  they  had  received,  I  know  not ;  but  the  next  day  the 
two  sailors  died,  and  the  day  following  the  captain  also  ex- 
pired, so  that  I  was  left  alone  in  this  terrible  situation. 

But  1  had  been  too  much  used  to  misfortunes  to  despair 
I  began,  therefore,  to  survey  the  shore,  and  to  cast  about  in 
my  mind  for  a  possibility  of  relief.  On  examining  the  moun 
tain,  I  soon  feand  that  all  hope  of  climbing  was  in  vain  ;  foi 
it  was  not  only  stupendously  high,  but  in  many  parts  abso 
lutely  perpendicular.  The  a  count  of  the  current  setting  ic 
•7ftry*here  to  th3  shore,  I  found  also  to  be  true  I  had  almost 


88  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

gheh  up  every  hope,  when  I  discovered  a  rivulet  ol  fresl* 
water,  which  instead  of  running  into  the  sua,  penetrated  the 
bottom  of  the  mountain.  To  this  place  I  with  much  labor 
brought  pieces  of  the  wreck,  and  formed  a  large  and  strong 
float.  Having  secured  this  properly,  I  went  in  search  of  pro 
yisions.  I  found  shell-fish  in  great  abundance  :  I  conveyed  a 
large  quantity  of  these  on  board  my  float,  resolving  to  trust 
myself  on  it,  and  take  the  chance  whither  the  current  might 
convey  me.  Before  I  embarked,  I  collected  great  quantities 
of  diamonds,  rubies,  emeralds,  and  ambergris  ;  these  I  formed 
into  bales,  and  fastened  strongly  on  board  my  vessel,  and 
cutting  the  cable,  committed  myself  to  fortune. 

The  stream  conveyed  me  into  a  hollow  passage,  under  the 
mountain,  which  was  entirely  dark.  I  sailed  many  days  in 
this  situation,  husbanding  my  shell-fish  with  great  care.  My 
food  was  at  last  exhausted ;  I  grew  faint,  and  insensibly  fell 
into  a  deep  sleep.  How  long  it  continued  I  knew  not,  but 
when  I  awoke,  I  found  my  float  drawn  on  shore,  and  myself 
surrounded  by  a  great  number  of  negroes.  I  arose,  and 
saluted  them ;  they  spoke  to  me,  but  I  could  not  understand 
them;  yet  I  was  so  transported  with  joy,  that  I  repeated 
aloud  in  Arabic,  "  Call  upon  the  Almighty,  and  he  will  help 
thee ;  thou  needest "  not  perplex  thyself  in  trouble,  for  God 
can  change  thy  bad  fortune  into  good." 

Happily  one  of  the  negroes  understood  Arabic ;  from  him  I 
learned,  that  my  float  having  been  discovered  in  the  river, 
they  had  drawn  it  on  shore,  but  finding  me  fast  asleep,  they 
had  waited  till  'I  awoke.  He  then  requested  that  I  would  tell 
them  by  what  ac3ident  I  came  into  such  a  situation.  I  related 
any  story,  which  the  black  interpreted  to  them.  When  I  had 
finished,  they  desired  I  would  suffer  them  to  conduct  me  to 
their  king,  that  I  might  relate  so  extraordinary  an  adventure 
to  him  mycelf.  I  cheerfully  consented,  on  which  they  furnished 
<ne  with  a  horse,  and  while  some  of  them  attended  me,  others 
XHitrived  to  convey  my  float  and  cargo  after  me. 

I  *as  very  favorably  received  by  the  king,  and  thankfully 


ENTERTAINMENTS  fcb 

accepted  his  invitation  of  reposing  some  time  in  his  court  tr; 
ro.Tover  from  my  fatigue?  During  this  time,  I  made  a  pil- 
grimage to  the  place  where  Adam  was  confined  after  hit 
banishment  from  paradise. 

The  island  was  called  Serendib ;  it  is  exceedingly  pleasanf 
and  fertile.  The  people  were  hospitable,  and  so  just  that 

awsuits  are  unknown  among  them.  The  magnificence  of  the 
palace,  and  the  splendor  of  their  prince,  when  he  appears  in 
public,  are  truly  admiraole.  On  this  occasion,  the  king  has  a 
ihrone  fixed  on  the  back  of  an  elephant ;  before  him  an  office? 
carries  a  golden  lance  in  his  hand,  and  behind  the  throne 
there  is  another  who  supports  a  column  of  gold ;  the  guard 
amount  to  a  thousand  men,  all  clad  in  silk  and  cloth  of  gold 
while  the  king  is  on  his  march,  the  officer  who  carries  th« 
lane**  cries  out  occasionally,  "  Behold  the  great  monarch ;  the 
potent  and  redoubtable  sultan  of  the  Indies ;  whose  palace  is 
covered  with  an  hundred  thousand  rubies,  and  who  possesses 
twenty  thousand  crowns,  enriched  with  diamonds  ;  behold  the 
crowned  monarch  ;  greater  than  the  greatest  of  princes !  * 
After  which  the  officer  who  is  behind,  cries  out,  "  This  mon 
arch,  so  great,  so  powerful,  must  die,  must  die,  must  die . 
The  officer  who  is  before,  replies,  "  Praise  be  to  him  who 
'iveth  forever ! " 

After  I  had  continued  some  time  in  the  capital,  I  requested 
the  king's  permission  to  return  to  my  own  country ;  which  h</ 
immediately  granted,  in  the  most  obliging  and  most  honorable 
manner.  He  forced  me  to  accept  a  very  rich  present ;  and  at 
the  same  time  intrusted  to  my  care,  one  of  immense  value, 
which  he  directed  me  to  present  with  a  letter,*  in  his  name,  to 
aur  sovereign,  the  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid. 


*  The  contents  of  the  king  of  Serendib's  letter  were :  "  The  king  of 
the  Indies,  before  whom  march  an  hundred  elephants,  who  lives  in  a 
palace  that  shines  with  an  hundred  thousand  rubies,  and  who  has  in  hii 
veasury  twenty  thousand  crowns  enriched  with  diamonds ;  to  the  caliph 
H  aroun  Alraschid. 

;  Thougk  the  present  we  send  you  be  inconsiderable,  receive  it,  how 
8* 


IK)  AKABIAK   NIGHTS' 

Our  voyage  was  short  and  pleasant.  I  had  the  honor  ti 
deliver  the  letter,  and  present  of  the  king  of  Serendib  to  th« 
commander  of  the  Faithful ;  after  which  I  retired  to  my  own 
dwelling,  rejoicing  with  my  friends,  to  whom  and  to  the  poor 
I  was  bountiful,  and  resolving  to  pass  the  rest  of  my  days 
among  them. 

Sindbad  presented  the  porter  as  before  with  an  hundred 
sequins,  and  desired  him  to  attend  the  day  following,  to  hear 
an  account  of  his  last  voyage. 

Sindbatfs  Seventh    Voyage. 

1  HAD  now  determined  to  go  no  more  to  sea.  My  wealth 
was  unbounded,  my  reputation  established,  my  curiosity  amply 
gratified,  and  my  years  began  to  require  rest ;  so  that  I  thought 
only  of  enjoying  the  fruit  of  my  former  toils  and  dangers. 
But  the  caliph  sending  for  me,  told  me  he  had  resolved  to 
answer  the  letter  of  the  king  of  Serendib,  and  to  return  him 
a  present  of  equal  value,  to  that  which  I  had  brought  him,  and 
that  he  had  fixed  on  me  to  be  the  bearer  of  it. 

I  wished  much  to  be  excused,  and  for  that  purpose  related 
to  the  caliph  the  many  perils  I  had  been  in.  The  commander 
of  the  Faithful  expressed  his  surprise  and  satisfaction  at  my 
narrative ;  but  persisting  in  his  desire,  I  cheerfully  prepared 
to  obey  his  commands. 

As  soon  as  the  caliph's  letter*  and  present  were  ready,  I  set 

ever,  as  a  brother  and  a  friend,  in  consideration  of  the  hearty  friend- 
ship which  we  bear  you,  and  of  which  we  are  willing  to  give  you  proof. 
We  desire  the  same  part  in  your  friendship,  considering  that  we  believe 
it  to  be  our  merit,  being  of  the  same  dignity  with  yourself  We  conjurt 
you  this  in  quality  of  a  brother.  Adieu." 

*  The  caliph's  letter  was  as  follows :  —  "  Greeting,  in  the  name  of  the 
Sovereign  Guide  of  the  right  way,  to  the  potent  and  happy  sultan,  froza 
Abdallah  Haroun  Alraschid,  whom  God  hath  set  in  the  place  of  honor 
tofter  his  ancestors  of  happy  memory. 

,  "  We  received  your  letter  with  joy,  and  send  you  this  from  the  coon 
til  ot  our  port,  the  garden  of  superior  wits.  We  hope  when  you  look 
ipca  it.  r >u  mil  find  our  good  intention,  and  be  pleased  with  it  Adieu. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  91 

Bail,  and  after  a  safe  and  pleasant  voyage,  I  arriv  ed  at  the 
island  of  Serendib,  and  discharged  my  commission.  The  king 
received  me  in  the  most  distinguished  manner,  and  expressed 
himself  much  pleased  with  the  caliph's  friendship.  I  staid  a 
short  time  at  the  palace,  and  then  reembarked  for  Balsora,  but 
had  not  the  good  fortune  to  arrive  there  as  I  hoped.  Provi- 
dence ordered  it  otherwise. 

Within  three  days  of  our  departure,  we  fell  in  with  a  cor. 
sair,  who  took  us  captives,  and  carrying  us  into  port,  sold  us  all 
for  slaves.  I  was  bought  by  a  wealthy  merchant,  who  treated 
me  very  kindly.  He  inquired  if  I  understood  the  use  of  the 
bow,  and  seemed  much  pleased,  when  I  told  him  it  had  been 
one  of  the  exercises  of  my  youth,  and  that  I  had  always  de- 
lighted in  it.  He  gave  me  a  bow  and  arrow,  and  carried  me 
to  a  vast  forest.  "  Climb  up,"  said  he,  "  one  of  these  trees. 
This  forest  abounds  with  elephants ;  as  they  come  within  bow- 
shot, shoot  at  them,  and  if  any  one  falls,  come  and  give  me 
notice. 

I  continued  in  the  tree  all  night.  In  the  morning  I  saw 
many  elephants,  and  shot  at  them ;  at  last  one  dropped.  I 
hastened  to  a^-ouamt  my  patron  with  my  success,  who  com 
mended  my  4exterity,  and  caressed  me  very  much.  We 
returned  to  tbe  *bvest,  and  buried  the  elephant  in  the  earth  ; 
my  patron  Vending  to  take  away  the  teeth,  when  the  body 
was  decayed,  to  trade  with. 

For  two  months  I  continued  to  kill  an  elephant  every  day, 
sometimes  from  one  tree,  sometimes  from  another.  One  morn- 
ing, while  I  was  looking  out  for  them,  I  perceived  they  did  not 
cross  the  forest  as  usual,  but  came  in  great  numbers  directly 
towards  the  tree  where  I  was.  Their  approach  alarmed  me 
so  much,  that  my  bow  and  arrows  fell  out  of  my  hand  ;  and  my 
terror  greatly  increased,  when  one  of  the  largest  of  them  wound 
his  trunk  round  the  body  of  the  tree  in  which  I  was,  and  pulled 
so  strong,  that  he  soon  tore  it  up  by  the  roots,  and  threw  it  on 
the  ground.  As  I  was  falling  with  the  tree,  I  gave  myself  up 
fot  lost :  but  the  elephant,  when  I  reached  the  oarth,  took  nfl 


92  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

np  gently,  and  placed  me  on  his  back.  He  then  went  at  th< 
head  of  his  companions  into  the  heart  of  the  forest,  when  stop- 
ping suddenly,  he  took  hold  of  me  with  his  trunk,  and  set  me 
down  on  the  ground.  Immediately  he  and  all  his  companions 
retired  and  left  me. 

I  had  been  so  extremely  agitated  during  these  transactions, 
that  it  was  a  considerable  time  before  I  recovered  the  use  of 
my  faculties  When  I  became  composed  enough  to  look  about 
me,  I  found  I  was  upon  a  long  and  broad  hill,  covered  all  over 
witt  the  bones  and  teeth  of  elephants.  I  could  not  but  admire 
the  wonderful  instinct  of  these  sagacious  animals.  They  had 
perceived,  no  doubt,  that  we  buried  such  of  their  companions 
as  wo  killed,  and  afterwards  opened  the  earth,  and  took  away 
their  teeth :  I  concluded,  therefore,  that  they  had  conducted  me 
to  their  burial-place,  that  we  might  obtain  our  desires  without 
persecuting  them. 

I  returned  to  the  city,  and  found  my  patron  in  great  trouble 
about  me.  I  related  to  him  my  adventure,  which  he  would 
hardly  believe.  We  set  out  next  morning  for  the  hill,  where 
he  soon  found  everything  1  had  told  him  was  true.  We  took 
away  with  us  ivory  to  a  great  value ;  and  on  our  return  to  the 
city,  my  patron  embraced  me,  and  said,  "  Brother,  God  give 
you  all  happiness  ;  I  declare  before  him  that  I  will  give  you 
your  liberty.  I  will  not  hold  in  bondage  a  moment  longer  the 
man  who  hath  so  greatly  enriched  me. 

"  Know  now,"  continued  he,  "  the  perilous  service  you  have 
been  engaged  in.  We  buy  slaves  here  solely  for  the  purpose 
of  procuring  us  ivory ;  and  notwithstanding  all  our  care,  the 
elepuants  every  year  kill  a  great  many  of  them.  You  have 
been  preserved  most  marvellously  from  their  fury.  Think  not 
that  by  restoring  you  to  freedom,  I  suppose  you  sufficiently 
rewarded  ;  when  I  procure  you  a  vessel  to  convey  you  home, 
you  will  find  me  more  substantially  grateful." 

Agreeable  to  this  promise,  my  patron  was  diligent  in  provid* 
ing  me  with  a  ship,  and  having  met  with  one,  he  freighted  it 
¥ith  ivory,  and  gave  me  both  the  vessel  and  cargo ,  we  parted 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 

nith  mutual  expressions  of  regard,  and  in  a  short  time  I 
returned  home,  with  another  great  addition  to  my  foi  tune.  On 
my  arrival  at  Bagdad,  I  waited  on  the  caliph,  and  related  my 
adventure  to  him,  which  he  heard  with  much  pleasure.  He 
dismissed  ma  very  graciously,  and  I  have  since  devoted  my 
*ime  wholly  to  my  family,  kindred,  and  friends. 

Sindbad  having  finished  the  relation  of  hi?  voyages,  ad- 
dressed  himself  to  Hindbad  thus :  "  You  now  know  by  what 
means  I  have  acquired  the  opulence  you  envied  me.  Say, 
have  I  not  gained  it  through  dangers  more  than  equal  to  its 
value?  and  ought  I  not  to  enjoy  myself?"  The  porter  mod- 
estly owned  the  truth  of  Sindbad's  reasoning,  adding  due 
praxes  to  his  generosity,  and  prayers  for  his  future  welfare. 
Sindbad  repeated  his  present  of  an  hundred  sequins.  His 
liberality  had  raised  Hindbad  from  his  penury,  and  finding 
him  worthy  of  esteem,  the  generous  sailor  received  him  among 
die  number  of  his  intimate  acquaintances. 


2  ne  History  of  the  Three  Apples. 

IN  one  of  those  evening  excursions,  which  the  caliph  Haroun 
Alraschid  frequently  made  about  his  capital  in  disguise,  he  saw 
a  man  with  some  nets  over  his  shoulder,  walking  slowly  along 
Som  ething  disconsolate  in  his  air  attracted  the  attention  of  the 
caliph,  who  asked  him  familiarly  why  he  was  so  sad.  a  I  am 
a  fisherman,"  replied  he,  "  and  am  just  landed  from  a  day's 
severe  and  fruitless  toil.  My  sorrow  arises  from  my  disap- 
oointment ;  having  a  large  family,  who  depend  upon  my  labor, 
whish  to-day  hath  been  thrown  away."  "  If  you  are  not  too 
much  fatigued,"  replied  the  caliph,  and  will  cast  your  nets  once 
more,  I  will  give  you  an  hundred  sequins  for  the  haul,  whether 
successful  or  not."  The  fisherman  heard  the  offer  of  so  large 
%  reward  with  equal  joy  and  surprise ;  and  readily  returned  to 
the  Tigris,  accompanied  by  the  caliph,  Giafar,  and  Mesrou^ 

The  fisherman  threw  in  his  nets,  and  brought  up  a  trunk, 
lose  si  it,  and  very  heavy  The  caliph  ordered  the  vizior  t« 


V4  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

pay  him  the  hundred  sequins,  and  directed  Mtsro.ir  U,  ^nvcj 
the  trunk  to  the  palace,  whither  he  also  retired,  impatient  UJ 
examine  the  contents  of  it ;  which,  to  his  amazement,  he  found 
to  be  the  body  of  a  beautiful  young  lady,  divided  into  quarters. 

The  wonder  of  the  caliph  soon  changed  into  fury  against  his 
vizier.  "  Wretch,"  said  he,  "  is  it  thus  you  watch  over  the 
police  of  my  capital,  intrusted  to  your  peculiar  care?  Aie 
loch  impious  murders  committed  with  impunity,  almost  in  our 
presence  ?  Bring  to  justice  within  three  days,"  continued  the 
enraged  caliph, "  the  murderers  of  this  woman,  or  thou  and 
forty  of  th)  kindred  shall  die  by  the  hand  of  the  executioner.*1 

The  consternation  of  the  vizier  was  extreme.  He  knew  the 
violent  temper  of  his  master  too  well  to  expect  any  good  from 
expostulation.  He  sat  about  the  inquiry,  therefore,  with  the 
utmost  diligence  ;  he  took  the  assistance  of  all  the  officers  of 
justice  in  Bagdad.  The  search  was  rigid  and  universal,  but 
entirely  ineffectual ;  not  the  least  information  being  obtained, 
which  tended  to  a  discovery. 

On  the  third  day  the  unfortunate  vizier  was  summoned  to 
appear  at  the  foot  of  the  throne ;  and  being  unable  to  produce 
the  offender,  the  enraged  caliph  ordered  him,  and  forty  of  the 
r  oble  family  of  the  Bermicides,  his  kindred,  to  be  hanged  up 
*t  the  gate  of  the  palace.  A  public  crier  proclaimed  through 
the  whole  city  the  caliph's  harsh  decree,  the  cause  of  it,  and 
that  it  would  immediately  be  put  in  execution.  Gibbets  were 
erected  without  delay ;  and  the  vizier,  with,  his  relations,  were 
led  out  to  suffer,  amidst  the  tears  of  the  people,  to  whom  their 
virtues  had  endeared  them. 

At  the  instant  the  execution  was  about  to  take  place,  a  young 
man  of  good  address  pushed  forward,  and  calling  out  to  the 
officers  of  justice,  said,  "  I  alone  am  the  criminal.  It  is  I/* 
§aid  ho,  "  who  committed  the  murder,  and  I  only  ougLt  to 
•uffer." 

WhUe  he  was  yet  speaking,  an  old  man  cried  out  to  th« 
Airier,  "  O  illustrious  Giafar,  believe  not  that  rash  young  man 
I  tun  the  wretch  who  have  brought  you  and  your  friends  LrU 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  94 

io  rouch  danger."  The  vizier,  though  rejoiced  at  hi»  owe 
escape,  pitied  these  unfortunate  men,  who  each  j  \ersisted  in 
declaring  his  own  guilt,  and  exculpating  the  other.  The 
jugde  criminal  conducted  his  prisoners  and  the  two  men 
before  the  caliph;  who,  having  heard  his  report,  sullenly 
dismissed  the  Bermicides,  ordering  Giafar  to  resume  hia 
office,  and  commanded  both  the  men  to  be  hanged.  The 
vizier,  notwithstanding  his  past  sufferings,  humanely  inter- 
posed, and  reasoned  with  his  master,  that  they  both  could 
not  be  guilty.  The  young  man  hearing  this,  cried  out,  "  J 
swear  by  the  great  God  who  raised  the  heavens  so  high,  that 
I  am  the  man  who  killed  the  lady,  cut  her  into  quarters,  and 
threw  her  into  the  Tigris :  I  renounce  my  part  of  happiness 
among  the  just,  at  the  day  of  judgment,  if  what  I  say  be  not 
truth."  This  solemn  oath,  and  the  silence  of  the  old  man,  con- 
vinced the  caliph.  "  Wretch,"  said  he,  "  what  could  induce  you 
to  commit  so  horrid  a  crime  ?  What  madness  impels  you  to 
rush  upon  your  fate,  by  thus  audaciously  avowing  it  ?"  "  Alas ! n 
replied  the  young  man,  u  I  do  not  wish  to  live ;  yet  I  trust  if 
your  majesty  will  deign  to  hear  me,  I  shall  be  found  more 
unfortunate  than  criminal."  The  curiosity  of  the  caliph  was 
excited  :  he  ordered  the  young  man  to  relate  his  story,  which 
he  did,  in  these  words :  — 

"  Commander  of  the  Faithful,  the  murdeied  lady  was  my 
wife,  and  daughter  of  this  old  man,  who  is  my  uncle.  Wo 
passed  several  happy  years  together.  I  have  three  children 
by  her,  and  our  affection  for  each  other  was  unbounded. 

"A  few  weeks  ago  my  wife  became  sick:  in  this  suuatioo 
ahe  expressed  a  great  desire  for  some  apples.  I  immediately 
endeavored  to  procure  some ;  but  though  I  offered  a  sequin 
apiece,  I  could  not  find  one  in  Bagdad.  On  the  contrary,  1 
learned  that  there  were  none  to  be  had  at  this  season,  in  any 
place,  but  in  your  majesty's  garden  at  Balsora. 

<*  Being  very  desirous  to  gratify  my  wife,  I  disregarded  the 
distance,  and  set  out  thither.  I  purchased  three  apples,  at 
*  great  price,  which  was  all  the  gardener  could  spare  mo 


3*  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

anJ  returned  in  fifteen  days  to  Bagdad,  much  pleased  whh  inj 
success.  But  when  I  came  home,  my  wife's  desire  for  them 
had  passed  away.  She  accepted  them,  notwithstanding,  very 
kindly,  and  though  she  continued  sick,  she  did  not  cease  to 
be  affectionate. 

"  Some  days  after,  AS  I  was  sitting  in  my  shop,  an  ugly,  tall, 
black  slave  came  into  it,  with  an  apple  in  his  hand.  My  heart 
sunk  when  I  saw  it,  as  I  was  convinced  there  was  not  one  in 
the  city  but  those  I  had  brought  from  Balsora.  I  asked  him 
hastily  how  he  came  by  it.  <'Tis  a  present/  replied  he, 
smiling,  'from  my  mistress:  I  have  just  been  to  visit  her, 
and  on  taking  leave,  she  gave  me  this  apple,  which  is  one  of 
three  which  her  kind  husband  has  been  as  far  as  Bal*ora  to 
obtain  for  her.' 

"  I  cannot  express  what  I  felt  at  this  discourse.  I  hastened 
home  immediately,  and  going  to  my  wife's  chamber,  I  saw 
there  were  only  two  apples  left.  I  demanded  where  the  other 
was.  My  wife  answered  me  coldly,  *I  know  not  what  has 
become  of  it.'  Transported  with  rage  and  jealousy,  I  drew 
my  dagger,  and  instantly  stabbed  her. 

"  When  I  found  she  was  dead,  my  fury  gave  place  to  fear. 
Though  I  did  not  regret  having  slain  her,  I  dreaded  the  conse- 
quences of  the  act.    I  divided  the  body  therefore  into  quarters, 
and  packed  them  up  in  a  trunk,  which,  as  soon  as  it  was  dark, 
I  threw  into  the  river.     When  I  returned  home,  I  found  the 
eldest  of  my  children  sitting  by  my  gate,  crying ;  on  my  asking 
the  reason,  '  Father/  said  he,   '  I  took   away  this  morning, 
unknown  to  my  mother,  one  of  the  apples  you  brought  her : 
as  I  was  playing  with  it,  a  tall,  black  slave,  who  was  going  by 
snatched  it  from  me  ;  and  though  I  told  him  how  far  you  ha 
been  to  fetch  it  to  my  mother,  he  would  not  restore  it. 
aot,  my  dear  father,  tell  my  mother  of  H,  lest  she  should  griev 
and  become  worse/ 

*•  My  son's  discourse  overwhelmed  me  with  the  most  insup 
portable  anguish.  I  found  I  had  been  betrayed  by  the  fatal 
lie  of  a  vile  slave  into  a  most  enormous  crime.  At  this 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  9V 

ture,  my  uncle  arrived  to  pay  a  visit  to  me  and  his  daughter 
I  concealed  nothing  from  him  ;  and  the  good  old  man,  instead 
of  loading  me  with  reproaches,  admitted  my  apology,  and 
joined  with  me  in  lamenting  the  loss  we  had  both  sustained, 
through  my  rashness  and  the  vilify  of  the  rascally  black. 
We  were  yet  mingling  our  tears,  when  we  heard  that  the  body 
was  found,  and  that  your  majesty's  displeasure  was  raised 
against  your  faithful  vizier,  because  the  murderer  was  undis- 
covered. I  resolved,  therefore,  to  Submit  myself  tc  your  royal 
justice,  the  decree  of  which,  however  severe,  I  shall  not 
presume  to  murmur  at." 

The  story  of  the  unfortunate  young  man  excited  the  pity 
of  the  caliph ;  and  his  indignation  was  turned  against  the 
r lave,  who  had  been  the  cause  of  so  great  a  calamity.  Nor 
was  he  yet  reconciled  to  the  vizier.  Dismissing,  therefore, 
the  young  man,  he  turned  to  Giafar,  aoc!  said,  "  Since  by  your 
negligence  such  an  enormity  passed  unnoticed,  till  accident 
re\uded  it,  I  command  you  to  find  out  this  wicked  slave  within 
three  days,  or  I  will  most  severely  punish  you."  Giafar  with- 
drew from  the  caliph's  presence  overcome  with  sorrow.  "  How 
48  it  possible,"  complained  he,  "  to  find  out  this  slave  in  a  city 
where  tiiere  ar°  such  a  number  of  blacks  I  I  will  rot  attempt 
30  fruitless  &n  inquiry,  but  will  resign  myself  to  my  fate." 

Accordingly,  instead  of  seeking  for  the  slave,  he  passed  the 
first  two  days  in  mourning  with  his  family ;  on  the  third,  he 
prepared  to  present  himself  before  the  caliph.  Having  taken 
leave  of  his  friends,  the  nurses  brought  to  him  his  favorite 
daughter,  a  child  of  about  five  years  of  age.  The  afflicted 
vizier  took  her  in  his  arms  to  salute  her,  when  perceiving 
gomething  bulky  in  her  bosom,  he  asked  her  what  it  was  ? 
«  My  dear  father,"  said  she,  "  it  is  an  apple,  which  I  have  just 
bought  of  our  slave  Rahan,  for  two  sequins." 

At  the  words  apple,  slave,  the  vizier  shouted  out  with  rrui- 
prise  and  joy.  He  caused  the  slave  to  be  immediately  seized, 
and  carried  before  the  caliph ;  to  whom  he  related  the  manner 
in  which  he  made  the  discovery.  The  caliph  was  much 


18  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

pleased  at  it,  aiid  embracing  Giafar,  declared  his  angei  toward* 
him  was  at  an  end.  "  But  this  fellow,"  said  he,  turning  to  th« 
slave,  "  shall  suffar  exemplary  punishment."  The  black,  pros- 
trating himself,  besought  mercy ;  and  the  vizier  finding  the 
calipK  in  some  measure  appeased,  ventured  to  intercede  for 
tim.  "  I  remember,"  said  he,  "  a  story  full  as  extraordinary 
as  this."  "  Relate  it  then,"  said  the  caliph,  "  and  if  it  is  so,  1 
will  give  to  your  slave  the  pardon  you  solicit  for  him." 

The  Story  of  Noureddin  All  and  Bedreddin  Hassan. 

THERE  was  a  sultan  of  Egypt,  who  having  been  bred  ap 
with  the  sons  of  his  father's  vizier,  determined,  on  the  death 
of  the  old  minister,  to  confer  his  office  on  them  jointly.  The 
eldest  was  called  Schemseddin  Ali,  the  younger,  Noureddin 
Ali.  They  were  both  men  of  abilities  ;  but  the  younger  had 
most  virtue  and  good  nature :  he  was  also  remarkably  hand- 
some. 

They  conducted  the  public  business  very  ably ;  and  as  the 
sultan  was  fond  of  the  chase,  they  used  to  attend  him  in  turn 
on  his  hunting  parties,  which  often  lasted  several  weeks. 

One  evening,  as  they  were  talking  after  supper,  Schem- 
seddin proposed  that  they  should  marry  two  sisters,  of  their 
acquaintance.  Noureddin  agreed  ;  and  the  conversation  was 
continued,  in  pleasantry,  as  to  what  might  arise  from  their 
nuptials.  "  If  I  should  have  a  daughter  and  you  a  son,"  said 
Schemseddin,  "  we  will  give  them  in  marriage  to  each  other." 
14  Agreed,"  replied  Noureddin  ;  "  it  will  cement  our  union,  and  " 
continue  it  to  our  posterity." 

The  discourse  was  carried  on  with  much  good  humor,  till 
ae  eldrist  brother  asked  the  younger  wha*  jointure  he  pro- 
jjosed  to  offer?  Noureddin  replied,  laughing,  "Are  we  not 
brothers,  and  equals  in  rank  ?  you  ought  to  think  of  a  dowry 
for  your  daughter;  you  know  the  male  is  nobler  than  the 
female."  "  How!"  replied  Schemseddir,  haughtily;  "a  mis- 
on  your  son  !  do  you  prefer  him  to  my  daughter  ?  j 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  93 

wonder  you  dare  think  him  worthy  of  her.  Do  you  forget  I 
ain  your  elder  brother?  Since  you  behave  so  ill,  I  will  no« 
give  my  daughter  to  your  son,  on  any  terms  whatsoever." 
Altercation,  however  trifling  the  subject,  often  excites  ill-will 
This  idle  quarrel  between  the  viziers  about  the  marriage  of 
their  children,  before  they  were  born,  was  carried  so  high,  that 
Schemseddin  left  his  brother  in  a  rage,  vowing  revenge  for  the 
insult  he  supposed  he  had  received. 

Noureddin  acted  still  more  imprudently.  The  day  following 
'he  elder  vizier  was  to  attend  the  sultan,  on  a  hunt,  for  a 
month.  As  soon  as  the  court  departed,  Noureddin,  stung  with 
the  unkind  behavior  of  his  brother,  determined  to  abandon 
him,  his  office,  and  his  country.  He  took  his  best  mule,  and 
bidding  adieu  to  Cairo,  he  arrived  some  weeks  after  at 
Balsora. 

Accident  introduced  him  to  the  grand  vizier  of  that  country 
flis  virtues,  abilities,  and  good  address,  merited  and  obtained 
for  him  general  esteem.  He  soon  became  son-in-law,  and 
afterwards  the  successor  of  the  vizier.  He  had  an  only  son, 
whom  he  named  Bedreddin  Hassan,  who  was  remarkable  for 
his  singular  affection  for  his  father. 

It  so  fell  out,  that  about  the  time  Noureddin  married  the 
daughter  of  the  grand  vizier  of  Balsora,  his  brother  Schem- 
seddin  also  married  ;  and  that  his  wife  was  delivered  of  a 
laughter  on  the  same  day  that  Bedreddin  was  born. 

Bedreddin  had  just  reached  manhood,  when  Noureddin  was 
seized  with  a  fatal  disease.  On  his  death-bed,  he  related  to 
his  son  the  cause  of  his  leaving  Egypt,  and  having  given  him 
his  pocket-book,  wherein  all  things  respecting  his  whole  lift 
was  circumstantially  recorded,  he  died  as  became  a  good 
Mussulman. 

Bedreddin  was  so  afflicted  at  the  death  of  his  father,  that 
he  shut  himself  up  in  his  house,  and  for  a  long  time  indulged 
himself  in  sorrow.  But  by  carrying  his  filial  piety  to  such 
excess,  he  drew  on  himself  a  series  of  calamities.  As  he 
"holly  confined  himself  at  home,  and  was  not  seen  for 


100  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

months  at  the  court  of  the  sultan,  the  haughty  and  passionate 
prince  was  offended,  and  ordered  his  effects  to  be  seized,  ani 
himself  brought  a  prisoner  to  the  palace. 

A  faithful  slave,  who  had  heard  the  orders  repeated  to  the 
officers  of  justice,  hastened  before  them  to  his  master,  and  gave 
him  notice  of  his  danger.  Thus  alarmed,  he  fled  from  his 
house  immediately,  without  stopping  to  take  the  least  supply 
of  money  or  otner  necessaries.  He  determined  to  pass  the 
night  in  his  father's  tomb,  which  was., a  large  dome,  built  with- 
out the  city.  As  he  drew  near  it,  he  met  a  rich  Jew,  who  was 
a  merchant  of  reputation.  Isaac  congratulated  him  on  his 
coming  abroad,  and  agreed  with  him  for  the  cargo  of  a  ship 
which  was  daily  expected,  depositing  a  thousand  sequins  to 
bind  the  bargain.  Bedreddin  rejoiced  at  receiving  a  supply, 
as  unexpected  as  it  was  necessary.  Night  drawing  on,  he 
entered  his  father's  tomb ;  where,  overcome  with  fatigue  and 
sorrow,  he  fell  asleep. 

It  happened  that  a  genie  had  retired  to  this  tomb  in  the  day, 
and  Tvas  preparing,  according  to  his  custom,  to  range  about  the 
world  during  night.  Being  much  pleaded  with  the  graceful- 
ness and  beauty  of  Bedreddin,  he  continued  some  time  in  the 
tomb  admiring  him  :  he  had  scarce  began  his  flight  through 
the  air,  when  he  met  a  fairy  of  his  acquaintance.  He  invited 
her  with  him  to  the  tomb,  where  they  agreed  in  admiring  the 
beauty  of  the  sleeping  Bedreddin. 

Ai'ter  viewing  him  for  some  time,  "  Genie,"  said  the  fairy, 
••  this  young  man  is  indeed  remarkably  handsome  ;  but  I  am 
just  come  from  Cairo,  where  there  is  a  young  lady  still  more 
beautiful.  She  is  at  this  time  in  very  great  distress ;  and  it  has 
occurred  to  me,  that  you  and  I  may  very  properly  relieve  her. 
1  will  therefore  relate  to  you  the  particulars  of  her  situation. 

"  This  paragon  of  beauty  is  the  daughter  of  Schemseddin, 
riziei  to  the  sultan  of  Egypt.  Her  accomplishments  are  sc 
'are,  that  the  sultan,  who  lately  saw  her  by  accident  at  hei 
Other's  house,  declared,  without  hesitation,  his  determination 
c  marry  her;  but  the  vizier,  instead  of  receiving  the 


ENTERTAINMENTS  i*TJ 

ftf  his  master's  alliance  with  joy,  begged  leave  to  decline  in 
The  haughty  suitan,  in  revenge,  has  sought  out  the  meanesl 
and  most  defcrrned  of  his  slaves,  and  compelled  the  vizier  to 
give  his  lovely  daughter  to  him  in  marriage.  The  nuptial 
cermonies  are  now  celebrating ;  and  the  most  perfect  beauty 
in  the  world,  will,  this  night,  be  devoted  to  a  base  groom, 
hump-backed,  crooked,  and  ugly  beyond  imagination,  unless 
we  interpose  and  put  this  young  man  in  his  place." 

"  Agreed,"  replied  the  genie ;  "  I  will  convey  this  youth  to 
Cairo,  and  conduct  him  through  the  business  of  the  evening ; 
my  power  will  then  cease,  and  I  must  leave  you  to  finish  the 
adventure." 

Accordingly,  the  genie  lifted  up  Bedreddin  gently,  and  with 
inconceivable  swiftness  carried  him  through  the  air,  and  set 
him  down  at  the  door  of  the  bagnio,  whence  Hunchback  was 
to  come  with  a  train  of  slaves.  Bedreddin  awakened  at  that 
moment ;  and  seeing  such  a  variety  of  strange  objects  around 
him,  was  about  to  cry  out,  when  the  genie  touched  him  on  the 
shoulder  and  forbade  him  to  speak.  Astonishment  now  tied 
up  his  tongue.  The  genie,  unseen,  related  to  him  in  a  few 
words  for  what  purpose  he  was  brought  thither ;  and  putting 
a  torch  in  his  hand,  "  Join,"  said  he,  "  the  bridal  train,  place 
yourself  at  the  right  hand  of  the  bridegroom,  and  when  you 
enter  the  hall,  distribute  the  sequins  you  have  in  your  bosom 
very  liberally  among  the  musicians  and  dancers,  but  still 
more  bountiful  to  the  female  slaves  that  are  about  the  bride ; 
nor  fear  the  money  will  fail,  for  you  will  find  your  purse  con 
tinue  full.  Preserve  a  perfect  presence  of  mind  ;  carry  every- 
thing with  an  air  of  authority ;  and  leave  the  rest  to  a  greater 
powei  who  will  assist  you." 

Bedrediin  obeyed  very  exactly  the  directions  of  his  invisible 
patron.  .  He  joined  the  throng,  entered  the  hall,  and  took  the 
place  of  the  bridegroom.  His  fine  figure  attracted  every  eye, 
and  his  generosity  gained  him  the  good  opinion  of  every 
attendant.  The  bride  was  no  less  struck  with  his  appearance , 
%ai  whei:,  acocrding  to  the  custom  of  the  Arabians,  she  canu 
9* 


X?>fc   '•';','  ARABIAN   NIGHTS" 

to  present  herself  to  her  husband  seven  times,  in  as  many 
different  splendid  habits,  she  passed  by  unnoticed  the  hateful 
Hunchback,  and  approached  the  agreeable  stranger  as  hei 
bridegroom. 

The  usual  ceremonies  being  over,  the  bride  withdrew  to 
her  chamber,  attended  by  her  women.  The  company  and 
attendants  also  retired  :  Bedreddin  only  remained  in  the  room 
with  Hunchback.  Ignorant  and  stupid  as  this  wretched  fellow 
was,  he  could  not  but  observe  that  Bedreddin  had  received 
the  distinctions  due  to  the  husband  of  the  Beautiful  Lady ;  and 
finding  him  stay  when  every  one  else  had  withdrawn,  he  cried 
out,  in  an  angry  and  peremptory  tone,  for  him  to  be  gone, 

Bedreddin  had  no  pretence  to  loiter  any  longer ;  he  there- 
fore withdrew.  But  before  he  reached  the  porch,  another 
unseen  instructor  stopped  him.  This  was  the  fairy  ;  who  bade 
him  return  to  the  hall,  "  where,"  continued  she,  "  you  will  no 
more  find  Hunchback,  but  the  bridemaids  come  to  conduct 
the  bridegroom  to  his  bride.  Present  yourself  to  them  in 
that  character;  and  when  they  have  led  you  to  the  lady, 
boldly  assure  her  that  the  sultan  never  intended  to  sacrifice  so 
much  beauty  and  merit  to  that  base  slave,  but  meant  only  to 
punish  the  vizier  by  the  apprehension  of  such  disgrace.  Avow 
yourself  the  bridegroom  intended  for  her;  she  will  gladly 
listen  to  you,  and  receive  you  accordingly." 

Bedreddin  pursued  these  instructions.  He  found  the  Beau- 
tiful Lady  overcome  with  fear  and  grief,  expecting  with 
abhorrence  the  frightful  groom.  Her  joy,  therefore,  was 
immoderate  when  she  saw  the  handsome  stranger  approach 
and  declare  hims«3lf  her  husband.  They  retired  to  the  bed- 
room, where  Bedreddin  pulled  off  his  turban  and  other  clothes, 
tnd  went  to  bed  in  his-  shirt  and  drawers. 

In  the  interval,  the  genie  had  disjosed  of  Hunchback. 
While  he  was  waiting  the  return  of  the  bridemaids,  the 
genie  came  to  him  in  the  shape  of  a  great  cat,  fearfully 
mewing;  the  fellow  clapped  his  hands  at  her  to  drive  hei 
AWAY  but  she  stared  at  him  with  fierce  and  sparkling  eyes 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  10} 

mewing  still  more,  and  increasing  in  size,  till  she  bec&aie  a« 
big  as  a  jackass,  and  then  changing  into  a  buffalo,  exclaimed 
"  Thou  hunchback  villain,  how  hast  thou  dared  to  marry  my 
mistress  ? "  Hunchback,  terrified  beyond  measure,  began  tc 
mutter  some  excuse,  when  the  genie  took  him  by  the  legs, 
and  setting  him  against  the  wall  with  his  head  downwards 
enjoined  him  not  to  speak  a  word,  or  move  from  that  postutc 
till  sunrise,  as  he  valued  his  life. 

In  the  morning,  at  daybreak,  the  fairy  took  up  Bedreddin, 
and  conveyed  him,  in  his  shirt  and  drawers,  to  the  gates  of 
Damascus,  where  she  laid  him  down,  still  asleep.  Soon^  after, 
the  people  began  to  gather  about  him  ;  all  admired  the  beauty 
of  his  person,  while  some  with  scoffs,  and  others  with  concern, 
expressed  their  wonder  at  finding  him  lying  almost  naked  on 
the  ground. 

Their  noise  awakened  him,  and  on  his  starting  up,  he  was 
surprised  to  find  himself  surrounded  by  a  crowd,  at  the  gate 
of  a  city.  He  inquired  where  he  was,  and  was  astonished 
when  told  he  was  at  the  gates  of  Damascus.  "Sure,  you 
mock  me,"  exclaimed  he  ;  "  when  I  lay  down  to  sleep,  I  was 
at  Cairo/'  The  by-standers  laughing  still  more,  he  increased 
their  vociferous  ridicule,  by  declaring  he  had  passed  the  pre 
ceding  day  at  Balsora. 

These  apparent  absurdities  made  the  people  suppose  him 
mad.  A  great  concourse  gathered  round  him,  and  followed 
him  into  the  city  ;  some  sneering  at  him,  others  pitying.  At 
length,  one  of  the  crowd  took  him  into  his  protection.  This 
man  had  formerly  been  captain  of  a  banditti,  but  was  now 
become  a  pastry-cook  in  Damascus ;  where,  though  he  behaved 
well,  every-body  stood  in  awe  of  him.  He  dispersed  the 
crowd,  and  taking  Bedreddin  home,  he  furnished  him  with 
slothes  and  refreshments. 

To  this  kind  protector  the  unfortunate  young  man  repeated 
his  story  in  private,  requesting  afterwards  his  advice.  "  There 
are,"  replied  the  pastry-cook,  "some  things  so  incredible  in 
rear  narrative,  that,  though  my  good  opinion  of  you  incline* 


i04  ARABIAN   NIGHTS5 

me  to  believe  it,  few  others  will.  At  any  rate,  y<.u  cawot 
nafely  return  either  to  Balsora  or  Cairo.  Be  content,  there 
fore,  for  a  time,  to  forget  your  birth,  and  take  refuge  in  my 
house.  I  will  adopt  you  for  my  son ;  no  one  then  will  dare 
to  insult  you  ;  and  you  may  continue  with  me  in  perfect 
security,  till  some  fortunate  event  shall  restore  you  to  your 
dignity."  Bedreddin  reluctantly  consented.  He  was  legally 
adopted  by  the  pastry-cook,  who  taught  him  his  trade,  and  a! 
iris  death  left  him  his  heir.  The  son  of  the  vizier,  for  some 
years,  earned  a  scanty  maintenance  by  pursuing  this  humble 
employment. 

At  Cairo,  all  these  events  produced  very  serious  embarras- 
ments.  When  the  daughter  of  Schemseddin  awoke  in  the 
morning,  and  missed  her  husband,  she  supposed  he  had  risen 
Boftlv,  for  fear  of  disturbing  her.  She  arose  also,  and  presently 
her  father  came  to  visit  her.  Schemseddin  expected  to  find 
his  daughter  in  the  deepest  sorrow ;  but  as  she  received  him 
in  a  manner  expressive  of  satisfaction,  he  could  not  retrain 
himself  from  reproaching  her.  "Is  it  thus  you  receive  me, 
wretched  girl,"  exclaimed  he,  u  after  having  been  prostituted 
to  the  embraces  of  a  vile  groom ?"  "How,  my  father," 
replied  she,  "are  you  yet  in  ignorance  respecting  my  marriage? 
the  sultan  was  too  just  to  sacrifice  me  to  the  horrid  Hunchback  ; 
he  sent  a  most  amiable  youth  for  my  husband,  who  cannot  be 
far  off,  as  his  clothes  are  here." 

The  vizier  withdrew  in  haste,  to  seek  his  unknown  son-in-law. 
The  first  object  he  saw  was  Hunchback,  remaining  in  the 
posture  he  was  placed  in  by  the  genie.  He  spoke  to  him,  but 
received  no  answer ;  he  therefore  put  down  his  legs  and  raised 
him  up.  As  soon  as  the  groom  felt  his  feet,  he  ran  to  the 
palace,  without  thanking  his  deliverer,  determined  to  complain 
to  the  sultan  of  the  mortifications  he  had  received. 

The  vizier  inquired  in  vain  for  the  bridegroom ;  he  returned, 
therefore,  to  his  daughter's  bed-chamber,  and  examining  the 
clothes  and  turban  of  his  son-in-law  with  much  attention,  he 
foui;d  the  pocket-book  which  Noureddin  Ali  had  given  to  hif 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  1  >f 

ion,  on  his  death-bed.  Schemseddin  instantly  knew  hli 
brother's  hand-writing;  and  seeing  the  superscription  of  Jha 
oook,  "  For  my  son,  Bedreddin  Hassan,"  he  gave  a  shout,  and 
nwooned  away. 

On  his  recovery,  he  said,  "  Daughter,  be  not  alarmed  at  this 
accident;  your  bridegroom  is  your  cousin,  the  son  of  my 
brother,  Noureddin  Ali,  the  cause  of  whose  leaving  Cairo  you 
have  often  heard  me  deplore :  a  wonderful  providence  has  nov 
nnited  you  to  his  son."  In  the  book,  all  the  circumstances  of 
their  disagreement  were  related  by  Noureddin :  the  purse  also, 
with  the  Jew's  memorandum  in  it,  was  found,  relating  the 
bargain  he  had  made  with  Bedreddin  at  the  time  he  paid  him 
that  money ;  so  that  there  remained  no  possibility  of  doubt 
but  that  the  husband  of  the  Beautiful  Lady  was  really  her 
Other's  nephew. 

Schemseddin  took  the  pocket-book  and  purse,  and  requested 
an  audience  of  his  master :  the  affronted  prince  still  retained 
his  anger  against  his  vizier;  and  Hunchback  being  about  to 
relate  what  had  befallen  him,  the  sultan  ordered  his  minister 
admission,  with  an  intent  to  mortify  him.  When  the  groom 
had  finished  his  account,  the  prince  demanded,  with  an  air  of 
indignation,  an  explanation  of  this  new  insult.  Schemseddin 
besought  his  master's  patient  hearing:  he  then  related  his 
conversation  and  quarrel  with  Noureddin,  and  producing  the  • 
purse  and  the  pocket-book,  showed  that  the  contract  made 
by  him  and  his  brother  had  been  completed. 

The  first  transports  of  the  sultan's  fury  had  subsided;  he 
was  now  more  calm  ;  he  examined  the  vouchers*  and  heard 
the  account  of  Hunchback  as  well  as  the  vizier;  he  then 
began  to  think  there  must  be  some  supernatural  interposition 
in  the  affair,  which  it  did  not  become  him  to  oppose.  He  dis- 
missed the  groom,  and  became  reconciled  to  his  minister  ;  and 
having  in  vain  caused  a  most  diligent  search  to  be  made  for 
Bedreddin,  he  caused  a  relation  of  the  adventure  to  bfl 
registered  among  the  archives  of  his  kingdom. 

Nine  months  after  these  events,  the  Beautiful  Lady  wa* 


1,06  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

delivered  of  a  son,  to  whom  the  vizier  gave  the  nam«  o^ 
A  gib,  or  wonderful. 

When  little  Agib  became  of  a  proper  age  to  receive  in 
struction,  the  vizier  sent  him  to  a  school,  where  the  sons  of 
the  principal  people  were  educated.  Agib  inherited  the  beauty 
of  his  parents,  and  thence,  as  well  as  out  of  respect  to  hii 
grandfather,  was  treated  with  great  indulgence.  His  fault* 
were  suffered  to  pass  unnoticed;  even  his  whimsies  were 
gratified.  This  absurd  complaisance  of  course  spoiled  the 
boy :  he  became  insolent  and  overbearing ;  he  hardly  behaved 
with  decency  to  his  master ;  but  his  school-mates,  every  one 
in  turn,  were  treated  with  contempt  or  outrage,  as  occasion 
arose  to  offend  him,  till  at  length  he  became  heartily  hated  by 
them  all. 

The  master  saw  this  behavior  with  concern,  and  determined 
to  humble  him.  By  his  instruction,  when  the  scholars  were 
all  together  at  play,  one  of  them  cried  out,  "  Before  we  choose 
our  sport,  let  us  agree  that  every  one  shall  tell  the  name  of 
his  father  and  mother ;  and  whoever  cannot  do  that,  shall  be 
considered  as  a  bastard  and  not  suffered  to  play  with  us."  All 
agreed  to  this,  and  Agib  among  the  rest.  The  others  answered 
readily  to  the  proposer  who  examined  them ;  and  when  he 
e^me  to  Agib,  he  replied,  "  My  mother  is  called  the  Lady  of 
Beauty,  and  my  father  is  Schemseddin,  vizier  to  the  sultan." 

"  Not  so,"  replied  the  examiner  ;  "  Schemseddin  is  not  youi 
father,  but  your  grandfather."  "  How,"  cried  Agib,  in  a  rage, 
u  dare  you  say  that  Schemseddin  is  not  my  father  ? "  "  No, 
no,"  said  they  all,  laughing,  "  he  is  not  your  father ;  and  till 
you  can  tell  us  who  he  is,  we  will  not  let  you  play  with  us.* 
TLey  then  left  him,  with  scoffing  and  derision.  Agib  hastened 
to  the  master  with  complaints,  but  was  still  more  mortified 
^hen  he  confirmed  the  sarcasm  of  his  school-fellows,  and 
advised  him,  on  that  account,  to  behave  to  them  with  less 
haughtiness  for  the  future. 

The  saucy  spirit  of  the  proud  boy  could  not  brook  this.  He 
fled  home  to  his  mother,  and  for  a  time  was  unable  to  speak 


ENTERTAINMENTS  1^ 

;c  her  from  passion.  When  he  had  explained  to  her  the  cans  € 
oi  his  agitation,  she  mingled  her  tears  with  his,  overcome  with 
affliction  for  the  loss  of  his  father.  At  this  juncture,  the  viziei 
chanced  to  pay  his  daughter  a  visit,  and  being  told  the  cause 
of  their  grief,  he  shared  it  with  them.  Nor  was  this  sorrow, 
thus  accidentally  revived,  without  material  effect.  The  vizibf 
determined  to  go  himself  to  Balsora,  in  search  of  his  nephew ; 
and  having  obtained  the  sultan's  permission,  he  set  out  with  a 
splendid  retinue,  accompanied  by  the  Beautiful  Lady  and  Jus 
grand sor 

After  a. journey  of  twenty  days,  they  drew  near  Damascus. 
The  face  of  the  country  being  very  beautiful,  Schemseddin 
determined  to  rest  there  two  or  three  days.  To  avoid  the 
fatigue  and  ceremony  of  visiting  the  governor,  he  caused  his 
tents  to  be  pitched  at  a  short  distance  from  the  city.  While 
the  vizier  reposed,  his  attendants  went,  a  few  at  a  time,  to  view 
Damascus.  Their  reports  excited  the  curiosity  of  Agib,  which 
Schemseddin  permitted  him  to  indulge,  under  the  care  of 
Schaban,  chief  of  the  black  eunuchs. 

The  handsome  features  and  graceful  demeanor  of  the  boy, 
drew  every  one's  attention  ;  and  before  he  had  proceeded  far 
in  the  city,  so  many  people  followed  to  admire  him,  that  the 
crowd  became  troublesome.  At  this  instant  they  came  to  the 
shop  where  Bedreddin  carried  on  the  humble  occupation  of  a 
pastry-cook ;  his  attention  being  excited  by  the  crowd,  he  went 
to  the  door,  when  the  sight  of  Agib  affected  him  unaccountably. 
The  force  of  nature  impelled  this  tender  father,  unknown  to 
himself;  he  entreated  the  child,  with  tears  in  his  eyes,  and 
uncommon  earnestness,  to  enter  his  shop,  and  accept  some  of 
his  pastry.  Little  Agib  was  moved  with  his  behavior,  and 
signified  his  desire  to  comply.  The  eunuch  at  first  opposed 
this,  as  an  unbecoming  condescension ;  but  the.  entreaties  oi 
Bedreddin,  and  the  annoyance  of  the  crowd,  induced  him  at 
last  to  consent. 

Bedreddin  received  them  with  great  joy ;  and  taking  a  creaoi- 
tort  out  of  the  oven,  he  strewed  it  with  pomegranate  kernel* 


1 08  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

tod  sugar,  and  set  it  before  them.  Agib  and  the  eui  neh  s>U 
of  the  tart,  and  praised  it  exceedingly.  While  B  edi  eddin  gazed 
on  the  child  with  inexpressible  tenderness,  a  thought  arose, 
that  possibly  he  might  be  the  father  of  such  a  child,  by  the 
charming  wife  from  whom  he  was  so  cruelly  separated.  Thia 
idea  increased  his  concern ;  he  could  not  restrain  his  tears  ; 
and  began  to  ask  the  child  a  variety  of  questions,  with  so  mud 
emotion,  that  the  eunuch  became  alarmed  at  his  behaviour* 
As  soon  as  Agib  had  done  eating,  and  the  crowd  were  dispersed, 
Schaban  led  him  away,  and  returned  immediately  to  the  tents 
Bedreddin,  listening  to  the  impulse  within  him,  followed  them, 

When  they  drew  near  the  camp,  Schaban  turning  round, 
saw  him,  and  became  exceedingly  frightened,  lest  the  vizier 
should  know  he  had  permitted  Agib  to  enter  a  common  shop. 
He  mentioned  these  apprehensions  to  the  child,  who  giving 
way  to  his  usual  insolence,  caught  up  a  stone,  which  he  threw 
at  Bedreddin,  and  hurt  him  severely.  The  unfortunate  pastry- 
cook, wounded  by  a  child  he  felt  so  much  fondness  for,  and 
threatened  by  the  eunuch,  gave  up  a  pursuit  which  he  had  no 
decisive  purpose  in  beginning,  and  returned  to  his  habitation, 
afflicted  and  disconsolate. 

The  day  following,  Schemseddin  proceeded  on  his  journey 
to  Balsora.  He  soon  found  out  the  widow  of  Noureddin  Ali, 
but  his  inquiries  after  Bedreddin  were  unsuccessful ;  the  vizier, 
therefore,  after  a  short  stay,  gave  up  all  hope,  and  prepared  to 
return  to  Cairo.  As  a  mutual  esteem  had  taken  place  between 
the  Lady  of  Beauty  and  the  widow  of  Noureddin  Ali,  the  vizier 
prevailed  with  her  to  accompany  them.  When  they  reached 
Damascus,  the  whole  retinue  pitched  their  tents  as  before,  to 
enjoy  a  few  days  rest,  before  they  continued  their  journey. 

While  they  remained  there,  Agib  recollected  the  pastry-cook 
whom  he  had  used  so  roughly,  and  requested  Schaban  to  go 
into  the  city  with  him,  to  see  him  again.  They  found  him  still 
employed  in  making  tarts;  and  Bedreddin,  notwithstanding 
ihe  ill  treatment  he  had  received,  felt  the  same  emotions  of 
wilderness  for  Agib.  He  ran  to  him!  and  would  have  em 


ENTERTAINMENT*.  105 

Draoed  him,  but  the  boy  pushed  him  aside;  yet  Bcdieddi* 
pressed  him  to  enter  his  shop.  Agib  replied,  "  there  is  an  ex- 
cess in  the  kindness  you  express ;  unless  you  will  promise  not 
to  follow  me  when  we  go  from  hence,  I  will  not  enter  your 
house ;  but  if  you  make  and  observe  this  promise,  I  will  visit 
you  again  to-morrow."  '  Bedreddin  consented,  and  Agib  with 
Schaban  went  in,  and  were  plentifully  supplied  with  cream 
tart,  which  they  ate  with  much  satisfaction. 

Evening  drawing  on,  Agib  and  his  governor  took  leave  d 
their  friendly  pastry-cook,  and  returned  to  the  tents.  The 
widow  of  Noureddin,  who  had  become  passionately  fond  cf  her 
grandson,  received  him  with  great  affection ;  and  as  it  was 
supper-time,  she  took  -him  into  her  tent,  and  set  before  him  t. 
cream-tart,  which  she  had  just  been  making.  Agib  tasted  it, 
but  as  he.  had  eaten  so  lately,  he  left  it  almost  whole ;  on  which 
his  grandmother  said  to  him,  "  Does  my  child  despise  the  work 
of  my  hands  ?  know,"  continued  she,  "  there  is  no  one  in  the 
world  can  make  such  a  cream-tart,  besides  myself  and  your 
father  Bedreddin  Hassan,  whom  I  myself  taught  to  make 
them."  "  Excuse  me,  madam,"  leplied  Agib,  "  There  is  a 
pastry-cook  in  Damascus  who  makes  much  better ;  we  have 
just  come  from  eating  some  of  his,  which  are  inimitable." 

The  lady  hearing  this,  became  incensed  against  Schaban  for 
presuming  to  suffer  her  grandchild  to  eat  in  a  pastry-cook's 
shop  like  a  beggar.  She  reported  the  matter  immediately  tc 
Schemseddin,  who,  still  more  enraged,  sent  for  the  eunuch,  and 
demanded  how  he  dared  be  guilty  of  so  heinous  an  offence  ? 
Scbaban  stiffly  denied  the  charge ;  but  the  child  averring  it  to 
be  true,  the  vizier  ordered  the  eunuch  to  eat  the  tart,  which 
Agib  had  refused ;  this  he  pretended  to  do  readily,  but  was 
obliged  to  leave  off,  when  he  had  swallowed  a  mouthful  or  two. 
Fhe  vizier  convinced  of  his  guilt,  ordered  him  the  bastfnado, 
when  he  confessed  the  truth,  and  added,  that  the  tart  wii 
much  better  than  that  made  by  the  lady. 

The  widow  of  Noureddin  Ali  felt  herself  piqued.     She  *enJ 
"m mediately  for  one  of  those  tarts,  which,  when  she  had  tasted 
10 


11C  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

the  cried  out,  "  it  must  be  my  son,  my  dear  Bed  cddin,  wh* 
made  thk  tart.  I  make  them  in  a  peculiar  manner,  which  1 
never  taught  to  any  one  but  him ;  and  as  this  is  so  made,  1  have 
no  doubt  but  he  was  the  maker  of  it." 

Schemseddin  received  this  account  with  the  highest  s&ti& 
faction ;  yet  fearful  of  a  disappointment,  he  requested  the  la  Jie* 
to  restrain  their  impatience,  and  leave  the  management  of  the 
affair  to  him.  "  I  will  contrive  to  bring  this  pastry-cook  hither,'' 
continued  he,  "  and  you  will  no  doubt  recognize  him,  if  it  ia 
really  Bedreddin ;  but  even  if  it  is  so,  I  will  by  no  means 
introduce  him  to  you,  till  we  arrive  at  Cairo."  The  ladies  at 
first  demurred,  but  the  vizier  assuring  them  he  had  good  reason 
for  this  resolution,  they  acquiesced. 

Early  in  the  morning,  Schemseddin  applied  to  the  governoi 
of  the  city  for  leave  to  carry  his  scheme  into  execution,  ac- 
quainting him  at  the  same  time  with  the  motives  of  his  conduct. 
The  governor  readily  agreed;  when  Schemseddin  detached 
fifty  of  his  attendants,  properly  instructed,  to  the  shop  of  his 
son-in-law.  As  soon  as  these  men  arrived  there,  they  began 
to  break  in  pieces  the  plates,  tables,  and  pans,  with  the  utmost 
violence.  The  astonished  Bedreddin  cried  out  to  know  the 
reason  of  such  ill  treatment.  "  Was  it  not  you,"  said  one  of 
them,  "  who  sold  us  a  cream-tart  last  night  ?"  "  Yes,"  replied 
the  pastry-cook,  "  and  I  am  sure  no  one  could  have  sold  you  a 
better."  At  these  words,  the  men  renewed  their  outrages,  and 
having  destroyed  everything  they  could  find,  they  seized  Bed- 
reddin, bound  him,  and  led  him  away  prisoner.  His  neighbors 
would  have  interposed  in  his  behalf,  but  at  the  instant,  some 
of  the  governor's  officers  arrived,  and  dispersed  them ;  so  tha> 
the  unfortunate  pastry-cook,  notwithstanding  his  cries  and  tears, 
was  carried  off. 

When  they  returned  to  the  tents,  they  produced  their  prisoner 
to  the  vizier,  who,  affecting  much  anger,  said,  "  Wretch,  was 
it  not  you  who  made  the  cream-tart  which  was  brought  mo 
la£t  night  P"  "  I  own  I  am  the  man,"  replied  Bedreddin.  "  It 
liiall  sost  you  your  life  then,'  said  the  vizier,  "  ibr  daring  tc 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  1    A 

send  me  so  bad  a  tart."  "  Alas !"  replied  the  prisoner,  "  L*NI 
tong  has  it  been  a  capital  offence  to  mak<*  indifferent  pastry  i 
yet  I  am  sure  the  tart  was  as  good  as  could  be  made." 

During  this  discourse,  the  ladies  who  were  concealed,  had  a 
full  view  of  Bedreddin,  and  instantly  knew  him,  notwithstand 
ing  his  long  absence.  They  were  so  transported  with  joy,  that 
it  was  with  difficulty  they  could  restrain  themselves  from  run- 
ning into  the  tent  and  embracing  him ;  but  their  promise  to 
tho  vizier  obliged  them  to  subdue  those  tender  emotions  of  love 
and  of  nature. 

Schemseddin  having  so  unexpectedly  succeeded  in  his  inter- 
esting inquiry,  set  out  without  delay  for  Cairo,  carrying  Bed 
i-eddin  with  him  as  a  prisoner.  When  he  arrived  at  his  palace, 
he  caused  his  nephew  to  be  brought  before  him,  and  gave 
orders  to  a  carpenter,  in  his  presence,  to  prepare  a  stake  to 
nail  him  to.  "  Alas !  sir,"  exclaimed  the  prisoner, "  what  have 
I  done  to  deserve  so  severe  a  punishment  ?"  "  Villain,"  replied 
the  vizier,  "  did  you  not  send  me  a  cream-tart  without  any 
pepper  in  it  ?"  "  Is  that  the  reason,"  exclaimed  Bedreddin 
"  that  I  have  been  treated  so  severely  ?  have  my  goods  been 
destroyed,  myself  made  a  prisoner,  and  led  away  many  days1 
journey  from  my  home,  am  I  now  to  be  put  to  a  cruel  death 
and  all  this  for  not  putting  pepper  into  a  cream-tart  ?  Are 
these  the  actions  of  Mussulmen,  of  persons  professing  probity 
and  justice  ?  Never  was  man  used  so  barbarously ;  cursed  be 
all  cream-tarts,  and  the  hour  in  which  I  learned  to  make  them." 
"  It  is  now  night,"  said  the  vizier ;  "  take  him  away,  I  will  not 
put  him  to  death  till  to-morrow ;  when  I  will  make  him  an 
example  to  all  base  pastry-cooks."  Saying  this,  he  made  signs 
to  his  attendants,  who  led  the  prisoner  away  to  an  apartment 
provided  for  him. 

At  the  time  of  his  daughter's  marriage,  after  the  bridegroom 
bad  been  so  marvelously  taken  away,  Schemseddin  had  not 
only  secured  the  clothes  of  his  son-in-law,  but  had  taken  an 
account  of  the  situation  of  every  thing  in  the  bridal  apartments 
To  this  he  now  referred,  and  caused  them  to  be  fitted  up  ex 


112  ABABIAN    NIGHTS 

aetly  as  they  were  on  that  night.  The  bridal  Uirone  wai 
erected,  the  numerous  wax  lights  lit  up,  and  Bedreddin's 
clothes,  turban,  and  purse  of  sequins,  were  disposed  as  he  had 
then  placed  them.  These  matters  being  adjusted,  the  vizier 
instructed  his  daughter  in  what  manner  he  would  have  her 
receive  her  husband,  when  he  entered  her  chamber ;  and  then 
dismissed  her  to  retire  thither. 

Bedreddin,  though  overwhelmed  with  grief,  being  exceed- 
ingly fatigued,  had  undressed  himself  and  gone  to  bed ;  where 
he  soon  fell  into  a  sound  sleep.  In  this  state  the  vizier's  ser- 
vants conveyed  him  to  the  bridal  hall,  where  they  set  him  down 
and  withdrew,  except  one,  who  continued  shaking  him  till  he  was 
awakened,  when  he  also  retired  suddenly.  Bedreddin  looked 
about  him  with  astonishment.  He  remembered  distinctly  the 
hall.  He  approached  the  chamber,  and  saw  his  clothes  as  he 
aad  left  them  on  the  wedding  night.  He  rubbed  his  eyes  and 
exclaimed,  "  Good  heavens  ?  am  I  awake  or  not  ?" 

At  this  instant  the  Lady  of  Beauty,  who  had  observed  his 
embarrassment,  opened  the  curtains  and  said,  "  My  dear  lord; 
will  you  not  return  to  bed  again  ?  why  do  you  stay  at  the 
door  ?  "  Bedreddin  on  this  entered  the  chamber,  and  perceived 
the  lady  who  spoke  to  him  was  the  same  charming  woman  wh« 
had  accepted  him  for  her  husband.  His  heart  leaped  for  joy  at 
the  discovery ;  yet  recollecting  all  that  had  befallen  him  during 
the  last  ten  years,  he  was  silent.  After  pausing  awhile,  ho 
examined  his  clothes  and  purse,  which  he  knew  immediately  j 
his  astonishment  redoubled.  At  last,  going  up  to  the  lady, 
"  Madam,"  said  he,  "  how  long  is  it  since  I  left  you  ?"  "  Did 
you  not  rise  from  me  just  now  ?"  replied  she,  "  surely  your 
*.hcughts  are  very  busy !"  "  My  thoughts,"  said  Bedreddin, 
*  are  not  very  easy.  I  remember,  indeed,  to  have  been  married 
to  you  ;  but  since  then  I  have  lived  ten  years  at  Damascus ; 
I  found  myself  almost  naked  at  the  gate  of  that  city,  and  being 
insult  ad  by  the  mob,  I  fled  to  a  pastry-cook,  who  adopted  me, 
taught  me  his  trade,  and  made  me  his  heir.  I  have  passed 
through  a  variety  of  adventures,  and  have  returned  hero  in 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  11£ 

good  tima,  as  they  were  just  going  to  nail  me  to  a  stake.* 
"  Alas !  for  what  enormous  crime,"  replied  the  lady,  "was  yott 
to  be  treated  so  severely?"  "  For  no  crime,"  said  Bedreddin 
"  I  had  my  goods  destroyed,  myself  taken  prisoner,  and  was  ai 
last  threatened  with  this  terrible  death,  for  selling  a  bad  tart." 
**  Ya:  have  indeed  awoke  in  good  time,"  said  the  Beautiful 
Lady;  "they  surely  did  you  great  injustice;  but  return  to 
your  bed,  and  try  if  you  cannot  dream  more  pleasantly." 

Though  Bedreddin  rejoiced  exceedingly  at  finding  again  hii 
lotely  bride,  yet  he  could  not  compose  himself  to  rest.  Tht 
recollection  of  what  he  had  passed  through  for  so  many  years, 
was  too  strong  to  be  overcome  by  the  idea  of  its  having  been 
a  dream.  On  the  other  hand,  as  often  as  he  withdrew  the 
curtains;  and  looked  about  the  room,  he  was  convinced  that  he 
was  in  the  bridal  chamber.  He  had  not  yet  recovered  his 
perplexity,  when  the  morning  appeared ;  and  shortly  after, 
Schemseddin  entered  the  apartment,  and  bade  him  and  the 
Lady  of  Beauty  good-morrow.  At  the  sight  of  a  man  whom 
he  had  lately  beheld  with  so  much  terror,  Bedreddin  was  much 
moved;  and  it  convinced  him  that  his  adventures  had  not 
existed  in  imagination  only.  "  Ah  ! "  exclaimed  he  to  Schem- 
eeddin,  "  it  was  you  who  condemned  me  so  unjustly  to  a  death  I 
yet  shudder  to  think  of,  for  making  a  cream-tart  without  pepper.' 

The  vizier  ran  to  him,  and  embraced  him,  laughing ;  he  then 
related  to  him  those  circumstances  with  which  Bedreddin  was 
acquainted ;  he  introduced  him  to  the  widow  of  Noureddin  Ali, 
and  little  Agib,  who  no  longer  fled  from  the  caresses  of  his 
father.  The  joy  Bedreddin  felt  in  finding  himself  surrounded 
by  so  many  persons,  deservedly  dear  to  him,  made  him  ample 
amends  for  his  past  suffering ;  and  in  their  beloved  society  ha 
passed  pleasantly  the  remainder  of  his  life. 

The  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid  was  so  well  pleased  with  this 
singular  story,  that  he  pardoned  the  indiscreet  slave  of  Giafar 
and  to  comfort  the  unfortunate  young  man  who  had  so  rashJy 
murdered  the  lady,  he  gave  him  one  of  his  slaves  to  wife,  an<J 

received  him  into  his  service. 

10* 


!14  ARABIAN   NI GETS' 


r17ie  Story  of  Aladdin,  or  the  Wonderful  Lamp. 

In  the  capital  of  Chip  i  there  lived  a  tailor  named  Mustapha 
who  with  difficulty  earned  a  maintenance  for  himself,  his  wife, 
Mid  son,  whose  name  was  Aladdin. 

The  boy,  though  of  a  sprightly  turn  and  good  natural  under- 
standing, was  careless  and  idle.  As  he  grew  up  his  laziness 
increased.  He  was  continually  loitering  about  among  black- 
guards in  the  street ;  nor  could  Mustapha  by  any  means  pre- 
vail with  him  to  apply  himself  to  some  employment  by  which 
he  might  learn  to  get  his  bread. 

This  idle  disposition  of  the  boy  destroyed  the  father.  Mus- 
tapha, finding  him  incorrigible,  was  so  much  afflicted,  that  his 
grief  brought  on  a  fit  of  sickness,  which  cost  him  his  life. 

Aladdin,  being  no  longer  restrained  by  his  father,  indulged 
his  indolence  to  the  utmost.  He  was  not  ashamed,  though 
fifteen  years  old,  to  be  supported  by  his  mother's  labor,  yel 
ceased  to  pay  her  the  respect  and  duty  .of  a  son. 

One  day,  as  he  was  amusing  himself  with  his  companions,  & 
stranger,  who  was  an  African  magician,  passing  by,  stopped  to 
observe  him.  After  looking  at  the  youth  for  some  time  very 
earnestly,  he  inquired  among  his  play-mates  who  he  was,  and 
presently  learned  his  little  history.  The  wily  African  then 
went  up  to  him  and  asked  him  if  his  father  was  not  called 
Mustapha  the  tailor  ?  "  He  was  so,"  replied  the  boy,  "  but  he 
has  been  dead  for  some  time."  The  magician  pretended  to 
burst  into  tears  at  this  account.  He  embraced  Aladdin  and 
told  him  he  was  brother  to  his  father ;  then  inquiring  where 
Sis  mother  lived,  he  gave  the  lad  a  handful  of  small  money, 
and  bade  him  tell  her  he  would  come  and  sup  with  her. 

Aladdin  ran  home  to  his  mother,  and  related  to  her  all  the 
particulars.  The  old  woman  told  him  that  she  never  heard 
his  father  talk  of  a  brother ;  but  as  the  stranger  had  treated 
him  so  kindly,  and  given  him  money  enough  to  provide  « 
Dipper,  she  would  make  ready  to  receive  him.  In  the  ever  ing 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  1 1& 

me  new  relation  came,  and  embracing  the  widow  of  Mustapha, 
shed  many  tears,  lamenting  that  he  had  not  arrived  sooner  that 
ne  might  have  seen  his  brother.  He  then  produced  some  fine 
fruits  and  wines,  and  they  sat  down  to  supper. 

During  theii  meal,  the  magician  pretended  to  admire  Aladdin 
much.  "  He  must  be  very  like  what  his  father  was  at  his  age," 
said  he ;  "  for  though  it  is  forty  years  since  I  left  my  native 
country,  my  love  for  my  brother  kept  his  features  in  my  mind, 
and  I  recollected  them  the  instant  I  saw  him."  Then  turning 
to  Aladdin,  he  asked  him  what  trade  he  had  chosen  ?  Aladdin, 
who  was  ashamed  of  his  not  being  able  to  answer  such  a  ques- 
tion, hung  down  his  head  and  blushed ;  but  his  mother  replied, 
that  he  was  an  idle  fellow,  who  would  do  nothing  but  loiter  in 
*he  streets ;  and  went  on  giving  him  the  character  he  deserved, 

Aladdin  was  covered  with  confusion  at  his  mother's  report 
i  f  him ;  and  the  magician  added  to  his  concern  by  blaming 
Lam  severely.  He  recommended  to  the  young  man  that  he 
should  apply  himself  to  traffic.  "  I,"  said  he,  "  can  instruct 
you  how  to  buy  your  goods.  I  will  take  a  shop,  and  furnish 
h  for  you  with  stuffs  and  linens.  These  I  will  give  you  to 
begin  with,  if  you  will  promise  to  be  diligent."  Aladdin  did 
not  want  sense,  though  he  hated  work ;  ho  knew  the  keepers 
of  such  shops  were  respected ;  he  accepted  therefore  his  new 
uncle's  offer  with  great  thankfulness. 

The  day  following  the  magician  called  upon  them  again 
early.  He  took  Aladdin  out  with  him,  and  gave  him  handsome 
clothes,  suitable  to  the  station  of  a  merchant ;  he  put  some 
money  also  in  his  pocket,  and  made  a  treat  for  some  principal 
merchants,  on  purpose  to  introduce  his  pretended  nephew  to 
them.  Aladdin  and  his  mother  were  by  these  means  com- 
pletely deceived.  They  never  doubted  but  the  man  who 
heaped  so  many  favors  upon  them  was  really  their  near  rela- 
tion, and  blessed  Providence  for  their  good  fortune  in  being 
found  out  by  him. 

Th(  magician  continued  caressing  them  till  he  had  obtained 
full  possession  of  their  confidence.  One  evening  at  supper,  h* 


116  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

laid  to  hi  j  pi  atended  sister-in-law, "  I  am  thinking  as  to-morrow 
will  be  Friday,  to  take  Aladdin,  and  show  him  the  gardens  out 
*f  town  where  the  gentry  walk ;  and  as  he  has  never  been 
there,  and  probably  will  like  to  see  them  all,  I  will  take  some 
refreshments  with  us,  and  we  \*  ill  not  return  till  night."  To 
this  proposal  Aladdin  and  his  mother  consented  with  great 
pleasure. 

In  the  morning,  the  young  man,  dressed  in  all  his  new  fiuerj. 
attended  the  magician  accordingly.  He  took  him  to  the  gar 
dens  belonging  to  the  sumptuous  palaces  of  the  nobility,  w  hicb 
were  situated  out  of  the  city.  Aladdin,  having  never  seen 
anything  so  elegant,  was  highly  delighted.  His  false  uncle 
drew  him  by  degrees  beyond  them,  into  the  champaign  that  led 
to  the  mountains,  amusing  him  all  the  way  with  pleasant  sto- 
ries, intermixed  with  advice  to  drop  his  boyish  acquaintance, 
and  converse  with  men.  Aladdin,  though  well  pleased  with 
this  discourse,  began  to  tire,  which  the  magician  perceiving, 
proposed  they  should  sit  down  and  rest.  He  then  produced  a 
parcel  cf  cakes  and  sweetmeats,  and  gave  the  lad  as  many  as 
he  chose,  after  which  they  pursued  their  walk. 

At  length  they  came  to  a  valley  which  separated  two  moun- 
tains of  considerable  height.  The  magician  told  Aladdin  he 
would  show  him  some  things  very  extraordinary.  He  directed 
him  to  gather  a  parcel  of  dry  sticks  and  kindle  a  fire ;  which 
being  done,  the  African  cast  a  perfume  in  it,  and  pronounced 
certain  magical  words  ;  immediately  a  great  smoke  arose,  after 
which  the  earth  trembled  a  little,  and  opening,  discovered  a 
stone  about  half  a  yard  square.  Aladdin  was  so  frightened  at 
what  he  saw,  that  he  would  have  ran  away ;  but  the  magician 
catching  hold  o^  him,  gave  him  so  violent  a  blow  that  it  knocked 
him  down. 

The  youtl  arose,  and  with  tears  in  his  eyes,  asked  his  sup- 
posed uncle  what  he  had  done  to  merit  such  severity  ?  The 
African's  view  was  to  make  the  boy  rtand  in  awe  of  him.  that 
he  might  without  hesitation  obey  his  orders,  and  execute  whaf 
Ve  had  for  him  to  do.  He  chid  him  therefore  for  his  want  of 


ENTERTAINMENTS  ll*i 

resolution  and  confidence  in  him,  whom  h<>  ougl  t  to  considei 
as  his  second  father.  He  then  began  to  talk  to  him  with  hla 
usual  affability.  "There  is  hidden,"  said  he,  "under  that 
stone,  an  immense  treasure,  which  you  may  possess  if  you 
carefully  observe  my  instructions.  Aladdin  promised  the  mosl 
exact  obedience.  The  magician  .embraced  him,  and  putting  a 
ring  on  his  finger,  bade  him  pronounce  the  name  of  his  father, 
and  grandfather,  and  raise  up  the  stone.  Aladdin  did  as  he 
was  directed;  and  notwithstanding  its  immense  size,  he  re< 
moved  the  stone  with  great  ease,  and  discovered  a  hole  several 
feet  deep,  and  steps  to  descend  lower. 

"  Observe,"  said  the  African,  "  what  I  am  ^oing  to  say  to 
you.  Not  only  the  possession  of  the  treasui  3,  but  your  life 
itself  will  depend  on  your  punctual  attention.  Though  I  have 
opened  this  cave,  I  am  forbidden  to  enter  it ;  that  honor  ia 
permitted  only  to  you.  Go  down  boldly  then.  You  will  find 
at  the  bottom  of  these  steps,  three  great  halls,  in  each  of  which 
you  will  see  a  large  number  of  coffers  full  of  gold  and  silver. 
Be  sure  you  do  not  meddle  with  them ;  nor  must  you  suffer 
your  very  clothes  to  touch  the  walls.  If  you  do  you  will 
instantly  perish.  When  you  are  through  these  halls,  you  will 
come  to  a  garden.  Here  you  will  be  perfectly  safe,  and  may 
handle  anything  you  see.  At  the  further  end  of  it  you  will 
find  a  lamp,  burning  in  a  niche.  Take  that  lamp  di>wn,  throw 
away  the  wick,  pour  out  the  liquor,  and  put  the  lamp  hi  your 
bosom  to  bring  to  me." 

Aladdin  obeyed  exactly  his  supposed  uncle.  He  went 
through  the  halls  with  as  much  precaution  as  the  fear  of  death 
could  inspire.  He  crossed  the  garden,  secured  the  lamp  in  hia 
bosom,  and  then  began  to  look  about  with  ease  and  composure. 
He  found  the  trees  were  loaded  with  fruits  of  many  colors. 
Transparent,  white,  red,  green,  blue,  pnrple,  and  yellow.  The 
transparent  were  diamonds  ;  the  white,  pearls  ;  the  red,  rubies 
the  green,  emeralds  ;  the  blue,  turquoises ;  the  purple,  ame* 
thysts ;  and  the  yellow,  sapphires.  All  these  fruits  were  l&rgre, 
wid  uncommonly  beautnul.  Aladdin,  thougn  ne  Knew  nothing 


l!8  ARABIAN    N  GHTS' 

of  their  Talue,  was  yet  much  pleased  with  them ;  an\  as  fc«j 
had  been  told  he  might  safely  meddle  with  anything  in  th*« 
garden,  he  filled  his  pockets  with  some  of  each  sort,  and  e  ven 
crammed  as  many  as  he  could  into  his  bosom.  He  then  re- 
turned through  the  halls  with  the  same  precaution  as  before  j 
and  having  ascended  the  steps,  he  called  out  to  his  uncle  to 
assist  him  with  his  hand,  and  pull  him  out  of  the  cave. 

Nothing  could  be  further  from  the  intention  of  the  magician 
than  to  deliver  Aladdin  from  the  cave.  He  had  found  by  hia 
books  that  there  was  such  a  lamp  concealed  in  a  subterraneous 
abode  in  China,  which  would  render  the  possessor  more  pow- 
erful than  any  prince  in  the  world ;  but  as  he  was  not  permitted 
to  enter  the  place  himself,  he  resolved  therefore  to  seduce  some 
friendless  boy  to  fetch  him  the  wonderful  talisman,  and  having 
gained  it,  to  shut  up  the  cave,  and  leave  him  to  his  fate.  When 
Aladdin  therefore  called  out  for  his  assistance,  he  called  a* 
loudly  for  the  lamp.  The  young  man  would  readily  have 
given  it  to  him,  if  he  had  not  buried  it  in  his  bosom  by  the 
quantity  of  jewels  he  had  put  over  it ;  and  being  ashamed  to 
own  that,  he  entreated  his  supposed  uncle  to  help  him  out,  and 
he  would  deliver  it  to  him  immediately. 

The  dispute  had  lasted  a  short  time,  and  neither  of  them 
were  disposed  to  give  way,  when  the  magician  turned  his  head 
and  saw  some  of  the  inhabitants  of  the  city  were  entering  the 
valley.  Fear  of  being  discovered  by  them,  and  rage  at  the 
obstinacy  of  the  young  man,  overcame  every  other  consider^ 
tion.  He  pronounced  two  magical  words  which  replaced  the 
stone,  and  closed  the  earth.  By  this  means  he  lost  all  hope  of 
obtaining  the  lamp,  since  it  was  forever  out  of  his  power  to 
open  the  cave  again,  or  to  teach  others  how  to  do  it.  But  he 
gratified  his  revenge  on  the  author  of  his  disappointment,  by 
delivering  up  Aladdin,  as  he  supposed,  to  certain  death.  He 
set  oif  immediately  for  his  own  country,  taking  care  not  to 
return  to  the  city,  lest  he  should  be  questioned  respecting  hifi 
pretended  nephew. 

Aladdin  was  exceedingly  terrified  to  find  himself  thus  buried 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  lit 

alive.  Hf;  cried  out,  and  called  to  his  uncle,  offering  to 
him  the  lamp  immediately ;  but  it  was  too  late.  As  the 
was  entirely  dark,  he  thought  of  returning  through  the  halla 
into  the  garden,  which  was  light :  but  here  also  he  was  disap- 
pointed. The  door,  which  had  been  opened  by  enchantment^ 
being  now  shut. 

Jn  this  state  he  continued  two  days  ;  when  in  an  agony  of 
distress,  he  clasped  his  hands  together,  and  rubbed  the  ring  th« 
magician  had  put  upon  his  finger,  and  which  in  his  hurry  to 
obtain  the  lamp,  he  had  entirely  forgot  to  take  away.  Imme- 
diately an  enormous  genie  rose  out  of  the  earth,  with  a  torch 
in  his  hand,  which  illuminated  the  cave  as  though  the  sun  had 
shone  in  it,  and  said  to  him,  "  What  wouldst  thou  ?  I  am  ready 
to  obey  thee  as  thy  slave,  while  thou  wearest  that  ring :  I,  and 
the  other  slaves  of  the  ring." 

At  another  time  Aladdin  would  have  been  terrified  to  death 
at  such  an  appearance ;  but  despair  gave  him  courage.  He 
replied  rapidly,  "  I  charge  you,  by  the  ring,  if  you  are  able,  to 
release  me  from  this  place/'  He  had  no  sooner  spoken  than 
the  earth  opened  ;  the  genie  lifted  him  up  to  the  surface,  and 
immediately  disappeared,  the  earth  closing  again  at  the  same 
instant. 

Aladdin  rejoiced  greatly  at  his  deliverance,  and  found  his 
way  home  without  much  difficulty  ;  but  so  agitated  by  his  past 
terrors,  and  faint  for  want  of  sustenance,  that  it  was  some  time 
before  he  could  relate  the  particulars  of  his  adventure.  His 
mother  congratulated  him  on  his  escape  from  such  imminent 
danger,  and  was  not  sparing  of  her  execrations  against  the 
treacherous  impostor  who  led  him  into  it. 

The  next  morning  when  Aladdin  got  up,  he  was  very  hun- 
gry, and  called  upon  his  mother  for  some  breakfast.  "  Alas  ! 
child,"  she  said,  "  I  have  been  so  distressed  on  your  account, 
that  I  have  not  been  able  to  do  any  work  those  two  days,  so 
that  I  have  no  money  to  buy  any  provision  ;  and  all  I  had  in 
the  house  you  ate  yesterday.  But,"  continued  she,  "  here  it 
the  lamp  you  brought  home,  and  which  hal  like  to  have  c*w( 


120  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

you  your  life ;  it  seems  to  be  a  very  good  one.  i  will  clear 
it ;  and  I  dare  say  it  will  sell  for  money  enc  ugh  to  keep  us  tili 
I  have  spun  some  more  cotton."  Saying  this,  she  took  some 
Band  and  began  to  rub  it,  when  in  an  instant  a  genie  of  gigantic 
size  stood  before  her,  and  said,  "  What  wouldst  thou  ?  I  am 
ready  to  obey  thee  as  thy  slave ;  the  slave  of  all  those  who 
hold  that  lamp  in  their  hands ;  I  and  the  other  slaves  of  the 
lamp." 

Aladdin's  mother  swooned  away  at  the  sight  of  the  genie ; 
but  her  won,  who  had  once  before  seen  such  another,  caught 
the  lamp  out  of  her  hand,  and  said,  "  I  am  hungry,  bring  me 
something  to  eat  presently."  The  genie  disappeared;  and 
presently  returned  with  a  large  silver  basin,  containing  twelve 
covered  plates  of  the  same  metal,  all  full  of  the  choicest  dain- 
ties, with  six  white  loaves,  and  two  bottles  of  sherbet.  Having 
placed  these  things  on  the  table,  he  disappeared. 

When  Aladdin's  mother  recovered,  she  was  very  much 
pleased  to  see  such  a  plenty  of  nice  provisions.  She  sat  down 
with  her  son,  and  they  feasted  abundantly.  When  they  had 
done,  the  old  lady  inquired  what  had  passed  between  the  genie 
and  her  son,  while  she  was  in  her  swoon. 

On  being  informed  that  her  rubbing  the  lamp  had  caused 
the  genie  to  appear,  she  protested  against  ever  touching  it 
again,  and  earnestly  advised  her  son  to  sell  it.  Young  as  he 
was,  he  had  more  prudence.  He  remonstrated  with  her  on 
the  great  pains  his  false  uncle  had  taken  to  procure  the  talis- 
man ;  on  the  use  it  had  now  been  to  them,  and  would  no 
doubt  continue  to  be  ;  as  they  might  live  comfortably,  without 
labor.  Lastly,  that  as  he  was  now  used  to  the  appearance  of 
genii,  he  would  rub  the  lamp  when  he  wanted  anything,  at  a 
time  when  she  was  not  in  the  way.  His  mother  answered, 
that  he  might  do  as  he  pleased ;  but  for  her  part  she  would 
have  nothing  to  do  with  genii. 

The  next  day,  the  provisions  being  all  gone,  Aladdin  took 
one  of  the  plates,  and  went  to  a  Jew  merchant  to  sell  it.  Tht 
Jew  soon  psrceived  it  was  of  the  purest  silver,  but  thinking  th« 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  l2) 

owner  ignorant  of  the  value,  he  offered  a  piece  of  gold  for  it 
Aladdin  thought  he  had  made  a  good  bargain.  He  gave  the 
money  to  his  mother,  and  they  lived  upon  it  in  their  usual 
frugal  manner,  as  long  as  it  lasted.  Aladdin  then  sold  another 
plate,  and  so  on,  till  they  had  only  the  basin  left ;  and  that 
being  very  large,  the  Jew  gave  him  two  pieces  for  it,  which 
supported  them  a  considerable  time. 

When  all  the  money  was  spent,  Aladdin  had  recourse  again 
Co  the  lamp,  and  the  genie  supplied  the  table  with  another 
silver  basin,  and  the  same  number  of  covered  plates  equally 
well  filled. 

The  provisions  being  all  consumed,  Aladdin  was  going,  as 
before,  with  one  of  the  plates  to  the  Jew,  when  he  was  called 
to  by  a  goldsmith,  who  asked  him  if  he  had  anything  to  selL 
"  You  go  often,"  said  he,  "  to  that  Jew,  who  is  thp  greatest 
cheat  among  his  brethren  ;  if  you  deal  with  him,  he  will  cer- 
tainly defraud  you."  Aladdin  produced  his  plate,  which  the 
goldsmith  weighed,  and  counted  him  down  sixty  pieces  of  gold 
for  it.  The  young  man  thanked  the  honest  shopkeeper,  to 
whom  he  afterwards  sold  the  other  plates  and  the  basin. 

Aladdin  and  his  mother  very  prudently  continued  to  live  as 
usual  for  several  years ;  only  he  went  more  neat,  and  instead 
of  associating  with  mean  fellows,  he  by  degrees  insinuated 
himself  into  the  good  opinion  of  the  first  merchants  and  jewel- 
lers of  the  city  Hence,  besides  obtaining  a  general  knowledge 
of  the  world,  which  rendered  him  a  pleasant  and  agreeable 
companion,  he  became  acquainted  with  the  true  value  of  those 
iewels  he  had  brought  from  the  garden  in  the  subterraneous 
cave.  These  he  had  considered  as  colored  glass  only,  and  had 
suffered  them  to  lay  unnoticed  in  a  couple  of  bags,  under  one 
of  the  cushions  of  the  sofa.  But  though  he  found  himself  pos* 
Bessed  of  immense  wealth,  yet  he  persisted  in  living  privately, 
even  humbly ;  devoting  his  whole  time  to  the  improvement  of 
his  understanding. 

Accident  put  an  end  to  this  philosophical  indolence,  scarcely 
excusable  in  a  young  man.     One  day  as  Aladdin  was  walk 
11 


122  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

ing  in  the  town,  he  heard  an.  order  of  the  sultan 
for  all  the  people  to  shut  their  shops  and  keep  within  door$ 
while  the  princess  Badroulboudour  (that  is,  full  moon  of  full 
moons),  the  sultan's  daughter  went  to  the  baths.  Aladdin  wag 
seized  with  a  great  desire  to  see  the  princess  ;  to  accomplish 
which,  he  contrived  to  get  behind  the  outer  door  of  the  bath, 
ffhere  he  remained  unobserved. 

As  the  princess  approached  the  door,  attended  only  by  hei 
onuchs  and  women,  she  laid  aside  her  veil,  and  gave  Aladdin 
on  opportunity  to  have  a  full  view  of  her.  Till  now  he  had 
never  seen  any  woman's  face  but  his  mother's.  He  supposed 
therefore  that  all  women  were  like  her,  and  thought  of  them 
with  indifference.  But  the  instant  he  saw  the  princess,  who 
was  exceedingly  lovely,  he  felt  emotions  he  had  till  then  been 
a  stranger  to.  When  she  had  entered  the  inner  doors,  he  re- 
turned home,  pensive,  yet  delighted.  He  passed  the  evening 
in  melancholy  and  silence,  and  the  night  in  indulging  the  starts 
of  a  restless  and  disturbed  imagination. 

Next  morning  he  behaved  with  the  same  reserve  and  s^V 
ness.  His  mother  had  perceived  before  his  change  of  behavior, 
and  thought  something  had  happened  to  displease  him.  But 
finding  the  same  appearance  next  day,  she  became  solicitous 
to  know  the  reason  of  it.  Aladdin,  after  musing  some  time, 
told  her  the  cause  of  his  uneasiness,  concluding  with  saying, 
*  1  love  the  charming  princess  with  so  much  ardor,  that  I  find 
i  cannot  live  without  her,  and  am  resolved  to  ask  her  in  mar- 
riage of  the  sultan,  her  father." 

Aladdin's  mother  heard  him  with  attention  and  concern ;  but 
*hen  he  came  to  so  extravagant  a  determination,  she  burst  into 
t  loud  laughter.     "  My  dear  son,"  she  said,  "  do  you  consider 
K  ha  yoa  are,  that  have  the  boldness  to  think  of  your  sovereign*! 
daughter  for  a  wife  ?    Do  you  not  remember  that  your  fathe* 
was  a  poor  tailor,  and  that  I  am  of  as  mes,n  extraction  ?  Sin 
tans,  if  they  ever  give  their  daughters  to  their  subjects,  gif 
them  to  those  who  have  distinguished  themselves  in  the  service 
>f  their  country.    V¥here  then  are  your  pretensions  ?  Lay  asi/la 


ENTERTAINMENTS  121 

I  pray  you,  those  fancies,  which  are  enough  to  maku  me  thin! 
you  out  of  your  senses. 

Aladdin,  notwithstanding,  declared  his  resolution  to  persist 
"  Who  do  you  expect,"  said  his  mother,  "  will  be  hardy  enough 
to  demand  the  princess  of  the  sultan  for  you,  according  to  th* 
custom  of  our  country  ?"  "  You,  undoubtedly,"  replied  her  SOD. 
u I  shall  take  care,"  said  she,  hastily,  "  how  I  engage  in  such 
on  affair.  I  go  to  the  sultan  on  such  a  message!"  continued 
the  old  woman ;  "  had  you  wished  me  to  apply  to  some  neighbor 
for  his  daughter  in  marriage,  it  had  been  well ;  but  to  seek  the 
daughter  of  the  sultan,  who  at  one  word  can  crush  you  to  atoms  1 
what  extravagant  madness !  besides,  no  one  approaches  the 
sovereign,  you  know,  to  ask  a  favor  without  a  present.  What 
have  you  to  offer  the  sultan  worthy  his  acceptance,  even  for 
his  smallest  favors,  much  less  for  the  highest  he  can  bestow?" 

"  I  own,"  replie'd  Aladdin,  "  my  wishes  are  extravagant ;  but 
I  love  the  princess  so  ardently,  that  I  must  resign  my  life  if  1 
do  not  succeed ;  nor  should  you  think  me  without  resources, 
when  you  recollect  what  the  lamp  I  possess  has  already  done 
for  us.  As  to  a  proper  offering  to  the  sultan,  I  am  able  to 
furnish  you  with  one  which  I  am  sure  he  will  gladly  accept." 

Aladdin  then  arranged  the  jewels  he  had  brought  from  the 
garden,  in  a  vessel  of  fine  porcelain,  which  showed  them  to 
great  advantage;  and  persuaded  his  mother,  who  consented 
with  infinite  reluctance,  to  carry  them  to  the  sultan.  "  Depend 
upon  it,  my  son,"  said  she,  "  your  present  will  be  thrown  away. 
The  sultan  will  either  laugh  at  me,  or  be  in  so  great  a  rage, 
that  he  will  make  us  both  the  victims  of  his  fury." 

The  day  following,  Aladdin's  mother  appeared  at  the  divan, 
and  was  admitted  with  the  other  suitors,  who  pleaded  theii 
causes  before  the  sultan.  She  placed  herself  in  full  view  of 
that  prince,  having  her  present  tied  up  in  a  white  fine  napkin 
out  never  attempted  to  approach  him  to  declare  her  business. 
When  the  divan  broke  up  she  retired,  and  returned  again  th« 
aext  council  day,  when  she  placed  herself  as  before. 

She  continued  to  do  so  for  some  tire,  till  at  lengtl 


124  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

cook  notice  of  hex,  and  ordered  the  grand  fizier  to  introduce 
her  to  him.  Aladdin's  mother,  by  the  example  of  others,  had 
learned  to  prostrate  herself  before  the  throne.  The  sultan  bade 
her  rise,  and  said  to  her,  "  Good  woman,  I  have  observed  you 
to  attend  very  often  from  the  beginning  to  the  rising  of  the 
divan;  what  is  your  business ? " 

Aladdin's  mother  replied,  "  Before  I  presume  to  tell  your 
iwjesty  the  extraordinary  and  almost  incredible  affair  which 
brings  me  before  you,  I  must  most  humbly  request  the  favor 
>f  being  heard  by  you  in  private,  and  also  that  you  wiD  pardon 
me  the  bold,  or  rather  imprudent  demand  I  hav«  to  make.*' 
The  sultan's  curiosity  was  much  excited  by  this  preface ;  he 
ordered  e/erybody  to  withdraw  but  the  grand  vizier  and  the 
petitioner,  and  then  directed  her  to  proceed. 

She  was  in  no  hurry  to  do  so,  being  very  solicitous  to  obtain 
pardon  for  her  presumption  before  she  began.  The  sultan, 
partly  tired  with  her  prattle,  and  partly  impatient  to  know  what 
she  had  to  ask,  gave  her  assurance  of  the  most  ample  pardon, 
and  again  ordered  her  to  relate  her  business,  and  speak  boldly 

Thus  encouraged,  the  old  lady  told  him  faithfully  in  what 
manner  her  son  had  seen  the  princess,  and  the  violent  love  for 
her  which  that  sight  had  inspired  him  with.  She  went  on  with 
much  prolixity  to  describe  the  debates  which  had  passed  be- 
tween them  on  the  subject,  and  concluded  by  formally  demand- 
ing the  princess  in  marriage  for  her  son  ;  at  the  same  time  she 
bowed  down  before  the  throne,  and  laid  her  present  at  the  foot 
of  it. 

From  the  manners  and  appearance  of  the  petitioner,  nothing 
xmld  seem  more  preposterous  to  the  sultan  than  such  a  pro 
posal.  The  instant  he  heard  it,  he  burst  into  laughter  ;  while 
the  grand  vizier,  who  had  reason  to  hope  that  his  master 
intended  the  princess  for  his  son,  looked  on  the  old  woman  with 
eyes  of  indignation.  When  the  sultan  had  recovered  himself 
a  little,  he  said  to  her,  still  laughing,  "  You  have  brought  » 
present,  I  see,  to  forward  your  suit;  pray  let  rne  look  at  it/1 
Aladdin's  mother  hastened  to  .ift  it  up ;  and  the  sultan,  whc 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  124 

expected  some  trivial  matter,  was  astonished  when  uhc  removed 
the  napkin,  to  see  so  many  inestimable  jewels  set  before  him, 
the  smallest  of  which  very  far  surpassed,  in  beauty  and  value, 
any  in  his  own  treasury. 

The  vizier  was  no  less  cnagrined  than  amazed  at  the  sight 
of  them ;  with  the  more  reason,  as  he  plainly  saw  they  had 
made  great  impression  on  the  sultan,  who  asked  him  if  the 
proposals  of  a  man  offering  so  magnificent  an  introductory 
present  ought  not  to  be  listened  to  ?  The  vizier  entreated  hit 
master  tc  put  off  his  answer  to  a  distant  day ;  and  the  sultan, 
who  was  much  swayed  by  his  minister,  told  the  old  lady  to 
return  again  in  three  months,  hinting  that  very  probably  the 
answer  then  would  not  be  unfavorable. 

Aladdin's  mother  was  overjoyed  at  a  reception  so  much 
beyond  her  hopes.  .  She  hastened  home  to  her  son,  who  re- 
ceived her  report  with  transport.  Three  months  indeed  seemed 
an  age ;  but  as  he  had  never  hoped  to  succeed  without  infinitely 
more  difficulty,  his  joy  was  unbounded. 

Two  of  the  three  months  passed  in  this  delirium  of  li*ppi 
ness,  from  which  he  was  aroused  by  news  which  at  once  dis- 
persed it.  His  mother  having  domestic  business  in  the  city, 
found  all  the  shops  shut,  and  preparations  making  everywhere 
for  a  general  illumination.  On  inquiring  the  cause,  she  waa 
told  that  the  son  of  the  grand  vizier  was  that  night  to  be  mar- 
ried to  the  princess  Badroulboudour.  The  truth  was,  the  vizier 
having  been  alarmed  at  Aladdin's  application,  had  taken  every 
possible  means  to  forward  the  suit  of  his  son ;  and  being  a 
skilful  courtier,  and  a  great  favorite,  he  prevailed  with  his 
master  to  set  aside  his  engagement  with  a  stranger,  and  com- 
plete the  intended  nuptials  between  the  princess  and  the  BOD 
of  hia  minister. 

Aladdin  was  in  despair  at  receiving  this  intelligence.  Ht 
retired  to  his  chamber  and  rubbed  his  lamp ;  the  genie  imme* 
diately  appeared,  and  made  the  usual  tender  of  his*  services. 
*  Hear  me  with  attention,"  said  Aladdin,  "  I  have  ever  had 
reason  to  be  satisfied  with  your  zeal  for  the  lamp,  is.  ihosf 
11* 


126  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

matters  I  h^re  applied  to  you  for,  since  I  have  been  fa 
possession  of  it ;  a  greater  concern  now  calls  for  an  exertion 
of  your  power  and  fidelity."  He  then  related  to  him  aft 
the  particulars  of  his  application  to  the  sultan,  and  of  his 
present  fears ;  and  concluded  with  commanding  him,  the 
instant  the  bride  and  the  bridegroom  were  alone,  to  bring  them 
in  their  bed  to  his  chamber.  The  genie  promised  punctual 
obedience,  and  disappeared. 

At  the  palace  the  usual  nuptial  ceremonies  were  completed 
Hie  bride  was  conveyed  to  her  bed ;  and  the  jocund  bride- 
groom, admitted  to  her  chamber,  shut  out  all  intruders,  and 
triumphed  over  his  obscure  rival.  But  the  moment  he  had 
Bet  his  feet  on  the  bed,  it  was  conveyed  away,  with  him  and 
his  bride,  to  a  mean  chamber.  Aladdin  was  waiting  for  them. 
He  ordered  the  genie,  (who  was  only  seen  by  himself)  to  take 
the  bridegroom  and  fix  him  immovably  in  an  outer  house. 
He  then  said  a  few  words  to  encourage  the  princess,  and  lay- 
ing a  sabre  between  them,  as  a  proof  that  her  honor  was 
secure,  he  passed  the  night  by  her  side. 

In  the  morning  he  summoned  the  genie  to  release  the  bride- 
groom, and  convey  them  back  to  the  palace.  This  he  per- 
formed so  exactly,  that  the  bed  was  deposited  in  the  nuptial 
chamber,  at  the  instant  the  mother  of  the  princess  was  open- 
ing the  door  to  pay  her  morning  respects  to  her  daughter. 
The  vizier's  son  hearing  her  approach,  ran  to  the  wardrobe  to 
put  on  his  clothes,  being  almost  benumbed  with  cold. 

The  sultaness  was  surprised  to  be  received  by  her  daughter 
with  evident  marks  of  discontent.  For  a  long  time  the  prin- 
cess resisted  the  entreaties  of  her  mother,  and  refused  to  relate 
the  cause  of  her  uneasiness ;  but  at  length  was  persuaded  to 
tell  her  all  that  had  happened.  The  sultaness  was  out  oi 
patience  at  a  narrative  so  improbable.  "  You  will  do  well/ 
«aid  she  to  her  daughter,  "  not  to  repeat  this  fable  to  any  one 
ebe.  "Where  is  your  husband  ?  I  shall  talk  with  him,  and  see 
if  he  has  had  the  same  vision." 

The  sen  of  the  vizier,  though  exceedingly  mortified  at  thf 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  12V 

transactions  of  the  past  night,  was  yet  too  proud  of  the  honoi 
of  being  allied  to  the  sultan,  to  forego  it  readily ;  he  hoped 
also  that  the  enchantment  which  had  distressed  him,  was  now 
at  an  end ;  at  any  rate  he  resolved  to  conceal  what  had  befallen 
him  for  the  present.  When  therefore  the  sultaness  asked  him 
if  he  was  as  much  infatuated  as  his  wife  ?  he  pretended  not 
fco  understand  the  question :  on  which  the  sultaness  answered 
with  pleasure,  "  it  is  enough  ;  I  see  you  are  wiser  than  she." 

The  rejoicings  in  the  palace  were  renewed,  and  all  appeared 
desirous  to  promote  the  pleasure  of  the  bride  and  bridegroom, 
The  vizier's  son  counterfeited  so  well,  that  every  body  thought 
him  a  happy  man  ;  but  the  affliction  of  the  princess  was  very 
slightly  concealed.  The  sultan,  who  was  extravagantly  fond 
of  her,  saw  it  with  great  concern ;  and  though  he  did  not  choose 
to  interrupt  the  joy  of  the  court  at  that  moment,  yet  he  resolved 
to  inquire  very  minutely  into  the  cause  of  it  the  day  following 

At  night  the  moment  the  princess  and  her  spouse  were  in 
bed,  the  distress  of  the  past  night  was  renewed.  They  were 
again  conveyed  to  Aladdin's  chamber,  the  bridegroom  was  dis 
posed  of  as  before,  the  sabre  was  again  deposited  between  the 
princess  and  a  stranger,  and  in  the  morning  they  were  re-con- 
veyed to  their  own  chamber  at  the  instant  that  the  attendants 
were  entering  it  to  announce  the  sultan. 

That  tender  father  was  anxious  and  impatient  to  know  the 
cause  of  his  daughter's  sorrow.  He  came  therefore  as  early  ae 
convenient  to  her  antechamber,  and  desired  to  see  her.  The 
princess  rose  immediately  and  attended  him.  A  general 
explanation  now  took  place.  The  princess  informed  her  father 
in  what  manner  she  had  spent  the  two  preceding  nights :  thf 
rizier's  son  confirmed  the  account ;  and  under  pretence  cf  con- 
sulting the  happiness  of  the  princess,  was  the  first  to  reqnes' 
the  marriage  might  be  dissolved.  A  stop  was  put  to  all  rejoic- 
ings, and  the  marriage  was  publicly  declared  void. 
conjectures  were  made  as  to  the  cause  of  this  event, 
became  generally  talked  of.  Aladdin  heard  of  i*  witb  gr* 


J28  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

joy ;  but  took  care  to  keep  secret  the  share  he  had  in  tK 
adventure. 

When  the  three  months  were  expired,  Aladdin  sent  hii 
mother  to  the  divan  as  before.  The  sultan  remembered  Ler 
but  having  no  inclination  to  give  the  princess  to  her  son,  h« 
consulted  his  vizier  on  the  subject,  who  advised  him  to  demand 
of  Aladdin  a  nuptial  present  so  exceedingly  valuable  that  :t 
would  be  out  of  his  power  to  procure  it.  The  sultan  was  well 
pleased  with  the  advice,  which  he  doubted  not  would  effectu- 
ally prevent  his  hearing  any  more  of  Aladdin.  He  beckoned 
the  old  woman  to  him,  and  told  her  he  was  ready  to  give  the 
princess  to  her  son,  provided  he  sent  him  forty  basins  of  massy 
gold,  full  of  the  same  kind  of  stones  she  had  given  him 
before ;  each  basin  to  be  carried  by  a  black  slave,  led  by  a 
young  and  handsome  white  slave,  all  of  them  magnificently 
dressed.  "  Go,"  said  he,  "  and  tell  him  on  these  conditions,  J 
am  ready  to  receive  him  as  my  son-in-law." 

The  old  lady  returned  home  much  dejected.  She  thought 
it  utterly  impossible  for  her  son  to  comply  with  this  demand ; 
and  dreaded  the  effects  of  his  disappointment.  Aladdin  heard 
her  report  with  great  pleasure ;  and  summoning  the  genie, 
requested  he  would  immediately  provide  the  present  the  sultan 
had  demanded,  that  it  might  be  sent  before  the  divan  broke  up. 

In  a  few  minutes  the  house  of  Aladdin  was  filled  by  the 
eighty  slaves :  forty  black  ones,  bearing  large  golden  basins 
filled  with  all  sorts  of  jewels,  each  basin  being  covered  with  a 
Bilver  stuff  embroidered  with  flowers  of  gold.  Aladdin  pressed 
his  mother  to  return  to  the  sultan  and  present  him  with  tht 
dowry  he  had  demanded ;  and  opening  the  door,  he  ordered  a 
white  slave  to  go  out,  and  a  black  one  with  his  basin  to  follow 
In  this  order  they  all  set  forth,  and  the  mother  of  Aladdin 
closed  the  procession. 

The  splendid  habits  of  the  slaves,  and  the  beauty  and  grace- 
fulness of  thsir  persons  attracted  every  eye.  They  proceeded 
ilowly,  and  at  equal  distances  from  each  other,  and  as  they 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  121 

maivhed  through  the  city,  the  people  crowded  to  see.  them 
When  they  arrived  at  the  palace,  the  porters  would  hav€ 
received  them  with  the  highest  honors  ?  but  he  who  came  first, 
being  instructed  by  the  genie,  said,  "  we  are  only  slaves ;  out 
master  will  appear  in  due  time." 

When  they  entered  the  divan,  they  formed  a  semicircle 
before  the  throne,  the  black  slaves  laid  the  basins  on  the  car- 
pets and  uncovered  them,  and  the  whole  company^aving  paid 
proper  compliments  to  the  sovereign,  stood  with  their  arms 
crossed  over  with  great  modesty. 

The  sultan  surveyed  the  whole  with  the  utmost  amazement 
and  satisfaction.  The  vizier  himself,  notwithstanding  his  griei 
and  envy,  was  obliged  to  own  that  Aladdin's  present  merited 
his  reception  into  the  royal  family.  All  the  court  concurred 
in  his  opinion  ;  and  the  sultan  dismissed  the  old  lady  with 
directions  for  her  son  to  hasten  and  receive  the  princess  from 
the  hands  of  her  father. 

The  joy  with  which  Aladdin  received  this  message  war 
unutterable.  He  summoned  the  genie,  and  said, "  Genie,  1  want 
to  bathe.  Provide  me  also  with  proper  apparel  and  equipage, 
that  I  may  visit  the  sultan,  who  has  consented  to  receive  me 
as  his  son."  As  soon  as  he  had  spo^e  these  words,  he  was 
conveyed  to  a  bath,  where  he  was  undressed  without  seeing  bj 
whom,  and  washed  with  all  sorts  of  fire  scented  water.  Whe;i 
he  had  bathed,  he  was  quite  a  different  man  from  what  he  had 
been  before.  His  skin  was  clear,  his  complexion  improved, 
and  his  whole  body  lightsome  and  easy.  The  genie  clothed 
him  with  a  most  magnificent  habit,  and  conveyed  him  home, 
where  he  found  a  number  of  attendants  ready  to  wait  on  him 
and  his  mother  to  the  palace. 

The  genie  supplied  him  with  ten  purses  of  gold,  which  h* 
gave  to  the  slaves  who  went  before  him ;  and  they  thre\* 
handfuls  of  it  on  each  side  among  the  populace.  By  this  lib- 
erality, he  gained  the  affections  of  the  people ;  even  those  oi 
a  higher  order,  though  they  did  not  scramble  for  the  money, 
were  pleased  with  his  bounty  to  the  commo,  people.  He  waa 


/SO  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

BO  altered  that  his  former  companions  did  net  know  him  fci 
Bueh  were  the  effects  of  the  lamp,  that  those  who  possess  *d  it, 
acquired  by  degrees,  perfections  both  of  mind  and  person, 
which  qualified  them  for  the  high  fortune,  the  right  use  of 
it  advanced  them  to. 

When  Aladdin  arrived  at  court,  and  was  introduced  to  the 
sultan,  he  would  have  prostrated  himself  in  the  usual  manner, 
but  the  monarch  prevented  him,  by  receiving  him  in  his  arms, 
^and  embracing  him.  They  conversed  together  a  long  time, 
and  the  sultan  was  charmed  with  the  wit  and  good  sense  of  his 
intended  son-in-law.  The  judge  presented  the  contract,  and 
the  sultan  asked  Aladdin  if  he  chose  to  stay  in  the  palaca 
and  solemnize  the  marriage  immediately. 

Aladdin  with  great  gratitude  declined  the  sultan's  offo 
"  I  would  wish  first,"  said  he,  "  to  build  a  palace  fit  for  tto 
reception  of  the  charming  princess ;  and  humbly  beg  your 
majesty  will  grant  me  a  piece  of  ground  near  your  own,  that 
f  may  the  readier  pay  my  duty  to  you."  The  sultan  bid  him 
take  what  ground  he  pleased,  but  desired  him  to  consider  how 
long  it  must  be,  before  he  could  complete  a  new  palace ;  and 
all  that  time  he  should  be  without  the  pleasure  of  calling  him 
aon. 

When  Aladdin  returned  home,  he  summoned  the  genie  in 
the  usual  manner.  "  Genie,"  said  he,  "  the  punctuality  and 
diligence  with  which  you  have  executed  my  orders,  deserve 
every  acknowledgment,  I  have  now  a  commission  of  still 
greater  importance  for  you  to  perform.  I  wish  you  to  build 
me  a  palace,  opposite  the  sultan's,  fit  to  receive  the  princess. 
Let  the  materials  be  the  most  rare  and  costly ;  let  there  be  a 
large  hall  in  it  with  a  dome  at  the  top,  and  four  and  twenty 
windows.  Decorate  these  windows  with  jewels  of  all  descrip- 
tions the  most  valuable  you  can  procure,  but  leave  one  ol 
them  plain.  Instead  of  wainscot,  let  the  walls  of  the  hall  be 
formed  of  massy  wedges  of  polished  gold  and  silver  laid  alter- 
nately. Let  the  offices  be  perfectly  complete,  and  the  whok 
wippned  with  the  jost  sumptuous  furniture,  and  with  a  prope/ 


ENTERTAINMENTS  131 

number  of  handsome  slaves  to  perform  the  necessary  da  tie- 
Do  all  this,  I  charge  thee  by  the  lamp,  in  the  most  perfect  man 
Her,  and  with  all  possible  despatch." 

By  the  time  Aladdin  had  finished  his  instructions  to  ib< 
genie,  the  sun  was  set.  The  next  morning  at  daybreak,  the 
genie  presented  himself  and  said,  "  Sir,  your  palace  is  finished  j 
eome  and  see  how  you  like  it."  Aladdin  consenting,  he  trans 
ported  him  thither,  and  led  him  through  the  various  apart* 
ments,  where  he  found  his  orders  punctually  obeyed.  The 
treasury  was  filled  to  the  ceiling  with  bags  of  money,  the  pat 
ace  with  the  most  costly  furniture,  and  the  stables  with  the 
finest  horses  in  the  world.  When  Aladdin  had  reviewed  the 
whole,  he  gave  it  the  praise  it  deserved.  He  then  ordered  the 
genie  to  spread  a  piece  of  fine  velvet  from  the  sultan's  palace 
to  his  own,  for  the  princess  to  walk  on,  which  being  executed, 
the  genie  conducted  Aladdin  back  to  his  own  apartment. 

As  the  morning  advanced,  the  grand  vizier  was  astonished 
at  the  sight  of  so  magnificent  a  building  erected  on  a  plain, 
which  was  quite  open  the  night  before.  He  ran  to  acquaint 
the  sultan  with  it,  declaring  it  could  be  only  enchantment. 
"  Vizier,"  replied  the  sultan,  "  it  is  envy  makes  you  say  so. 
You  know  it  is  Aladdin's  palace.  No  doubt  he  has  been  long 
engaged  in  preparing  it ;  and  now  has  put  it  together  by  em 
ploying  a  vast  number  of  people,  and  paying  them  well,  on 
purpose  to  surprise  us.  You  must  believe  his  riches  are  inex- 
haustible ;  and  he  thus  shows  us  what  can  be  done  by  money." 

Aladdin  now  sent  a  message  to  the  sultan,  desiring  his  per- 
mission to  wait  on  him  and  the  princess  ;  and  that  the  nuptials 
might  be  solemnized  that  day.  The  sultan  consenting,  Alad- 
din bid  adieu  forever  to  his  paternal  dwelling.  He  first  dis- 
posed his  mother  to  go  to  the  palace  with  her  slaves  to  attend 
toe  princess ;  he  then  secured  his  wonderful  lamp,  and  mount- 
ing his  horse,  attended  by  a  numerous  and  splendid  retinue,  hti 
arrived  at  the  palace. 

The  marriage  ceremonies  were  performed  ;  and  in  the  <ave- 
uiug  Aladdin  went  first  to  his  own  palace,  that  Le  might  b* 


(32  AKABIAN   NIGHTS* 

ready  to  receive  the  princess:  who  having  taken  a  tendei 
farewell  of  her  parents,  set  forward  on  the  velvet,  amidst  th« 
Bound  of  trumpets,  and  the  shouts  of  the  people.  Aladdin 
received  her  with  transport,  and  conducted  her  into  the  grand 
hall,  which  was  superbly  illuminated.  The  princess  being 
seated,  a  noble  feast  was  served  up.  The  plates  and  dishes 
were  all  of  burnished  gold,  and  contained  the  most  delicious 
meats :  the  vessels  on  the  beaufet  were  also  of  gold ;  and  al] 
the  other  furniture  in  the  hall  was  suitably  magnificent.  The 
princess,  though  used  to  the  splendor  of  a  court  from  her 
infancy,  was  yet  much  struck  with  the  magnificence  of  hei 
new  habitation,  and  expressed  her  pleasure  to  Aladdin  in  the 
strongest  terms. 

After  supper,  there  was  a  concert  of  music  by  genii  and 
fairies,  and  a  dance  by  the  same  kind  of  performers  who  per- 
formed after  the  fashion  of  the  country,  in  figure,  with  great 
grace  and  activity. 

The  day  following,  the  royal  parents  came  to  Aladdin's  pal- 
ace, to  congratulate  the  princess ;  she  received  them  with 
cheerful  duty,  and  conducted  them  to  the  hall.  They  were 
astonished  at  such  a  display  of  riches  and  elegance ;  but  the 
sultan  seeing  one  of  the  windows  without  ornament,  inquired 
the  reason  of  it.  "  Sir,"  replied  the  prince,  for  so  Aladdin  was 
now  called,  "  I  ordered  the  window  to  be  left  in  that  state, 
that  your  majesty  might  brye  the  glory  of  finishing  this  hall 
and  palace." 

The  sultan  accepted  the  compliment,  and  ordered  his  jewel- 
lers and  goldsmiths  to  set  about  it.  For  a  whole  month  they 
were  busily  employed,  and  had  used  all  the  sultan's  jewels, 
Dot  withstanding  the  large  supply  he  had  received  from  Alad- 
din, yet  they  had  not  finished  one  side  of  the  window.  When 
Aladdin  found  they  were  quite  at  a  stand,  he  ordered  them  to 
undo  their  work,  and  restore  the  jewels  to  the  sultan.  H« 
then  rubbed  his  lamp,  and  directed  the  genie  tx>  complete  the 
kail,  which  was  done  immediately. 

The  sultan,  when  the  workmen  returned  him  the  jev/ai* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  131 

tame  to  expostulate  with  his  son-in-law,  on  his  leading  so 
noble  a  hall  unfinished ;  but  when  Aladdin  conducted  him  into 
it,  he  found  the  windows  were  all  perfect.  Turning  to  A7a^ 
din,  he  embraced  him,  saying,  "  You  are  a  most  extraordinary 
man,  to  do  such  surprising  things  thus  in  an  instant;  theme*1* 
I  know  you,  the  more  I  admire  you." 

From  this  time  Aladdin  lived  in  great  state.  He  was  also 
fcappy  in  the  affection  of  the  princess,  the  confidence  of  the 
sultan,  a,nd  the  general  love  of  the  people.  He  supported  ihe 
dignity  of  his  rank  with  propriety :  his  abilities  appeared 
more  and  more  respectable.  On  a  dangerous  insurrection, 
the  sultan  gave  him  the  command  of  his  armies,  and  he  was 
found  worthy  the  trust,  defeating  the  rebels  in  two  pitched 
battles,  in  which  he  displayed  great  courage  and  military 
conduct. 

But  no  situation  in  human  life  is  exempt  from  misfortune 
Several  years  after  these  events,  the  African  magician,  who 
had  undesignedly  been  the  instrument  of  Aladdin's  good 
fortune,  chanced  to  recollect  him,  and  resolved  to  know  if  he 
had  perished  in  the  cave.  He  cast  figures,  and  formed  a 
horoscope,  by  which  he  found  that  Aladdin  had  escaped,  lived 
splendidly,  was  rich,  had  married  a  princess,  and  was  verv 
much  honored  and  respected. 

The  natural  malignity  of  the  magician  became  tenfold  on 
this  discovery.  He  burst  out  in  a  rage,  saying,  "  Has  this 
wretched  tailor's  son  discovered  the  virtue  of  the  lamp  ?  does 
he  whom  I  despised  and  devoted  to  death  enjoy  the  fruit  oi 
my  labor  and  study  ?  he  shall  not  long  do  so."  He  immediately 
prepared  for  a  journey ;  and  setting  off  next  day,  travell  3d 
till  he  arrived  again  at  the  capital  of  China 

He  put  up  at  one  of  the  principal  khans,  and  mingled  with 
people  of  the  better  sort,  among  whom  he  soon  heard  much 
talk  of  Aladdin's  palace ;  for  though  it  had  been  built  some 
years,  it  still  continued  an  object  of  admiration  among  the 
citizens.  One  of  the  company  perceiving  the  magician  was  a 
stranger,  and  listened  to  them  with  particular  attention,  courto 
12 


'34  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

ou sly  offered  to  show  him  those  parts  of  it  where  the  public 
were  admitted.  The  magician  accepted  his  civility,  and  pre& 
ently  was  convinced  that  it  was  built  by  the  £enii,  slaves  to 
the  lamp,  as  it  was  evidently  out  of  the  power  of  man  to 
produce  so  rich  and  glorious  an  edifice. 

The  magician  learned  that  Aladdin  was  gone  on  a  hunting- 
party  which  would  last  several  days.  As  soon  as  he  got  back 
to  the  khan,  he  had  recourse  to  his  art  to  know  whethei 
Aladdin  carried  his  lamp  about  him.  He  had  the  unhoped 
for  pleasure  to  learn,  that  the  lamp  was  left  in  the  palace 
under  no  particular  charge.  He  placed,  therefore,  a  dozeu 
handsome  copper  lamps  in  a  basket,  and  went  to  the  paiace  of 
Aladdin,  crying  out,  "  Who  will  change  old  lamps  ft  r  new  ?  " 

Several  people  accepted  his  offer,  and  this  drew  a  crowd  of 
boys  and  idle  people  about  him.  The  noise  they  made, 
attracted  the  notice  of  the  princess :  she  sent  a  female  slave 
to  inquire  the  cause.  On  her  report,  another  of  the  princess' 
women  said,  "  Let  us  try  if  this  man  is  as  silly  as  he  pretends 
to  be.  I  remember  to  have  seen  an  old  copper  lamp  on  a 
cornice ;  the  owner  no  doubt  will  be  glad  to  find  a  new  one  in 
its  place/*  Badroulboudour  consented;  the  exchange  was 
soon  made,  and  the  magician  having  obtained  the  prize  he 
Bought,  returned  with  it,  rejoicing,  to  his  khan. 

In  the  evening  he  went  into  the  fields,  and  reposed  himself 
till  midnight.  He  then  rubbed  the  lamp,  when  the  genie 
appeared,  and  said,  "  What  wouldst  thou  ?  I  am  ready  to 
obey  thee  as  thy  slave ;  the  slave  of  all  those  who  have  that 
lamp  in  their  hands ;  I,  and  the  other  slaves  of  the  lamp.'5 
"I  command  thee,"  replied  the  magician,  "to  transport  me 
and  the  palace  which  thou  hast  built  in  this  city,  and  all 
who  are  in  it,  to  such  a  placo  in  Africa."  The  genie  and  his 
associates  immediately  obeyed  him. 

The  sultan  was  so  delighted  with  Aladdin's  palace,  that  he 
used  to  look  out  of  his  closet  every  morning  to  admire  it.  The 
morning  after  this  removal,  he  was  astonished  to  see  only  a 
*jid  space,  where  the  palace  had  stood  the  evening  before 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  13$ 

ul  ing  his  grand  vizier,  that  minister  replied,  '  I  arh 
exceedingly  sorry,  sir,  that  this  event  too  fully  proves  the 
truth  of  my  opinion  Your  majesty  knows  I  have  always 
thought  this  palace,  and  all  its  immense  riches,  were  the  work 
of  magic  only,  and  I  now  fear  with  too  much  reason,  thai 
those  powers  who  were  capable,  in  one  night,  to  produce  so 
much  treasure  and  magnificence,  have  with  equal  facility  taken 
them  away  again." 

These  remarks  of  the  vizier  kindled  the  sultan's  rage 
against  Aladdin.  "  Where  is  that  impostor,  that  vile  wretch  ?M 
exclaimed  the  sultan;  "bring  him  before  me,  and  let  his  head 
pay  the  price  of  his  wicked  delusions." 

The  vizier  despatched  an  officer,  properly  instructed,  with  a 
small  party  of  horse,  in  search  of  Aladdin ;  when  they  came 
up  with  him,  the  officer  told  him  that  the  sultan  required  his 
presence  on  particular  business.  Aladdin,  who  had  not  the 
least  idea  of  his  having  incurred  the  displeasure  of  his  father- 
in-law,  took  leave  of  his  train,  whom  he  left  to  pursue  their 
sport,  and  joining  their  party,  rode  towards  the  city. 

When  they  drew  near  it,  the  officer  addressing  himself 
to  the  prince,  said,  "  It  is  with  great  regret,  sir,  that  I  declare 
to  you  the  commands  of  the  sultan,  which  are,  that  I  am  to 
arrest  you,  and  carry  you  before  him  as  a  criminal,  in  the  most 
ignominious  manner."  Accordingly  a  chain  was  put  about  his 
neck,  and  fastened  round  his  body,  so  that  his  arms  were  pin 
ioned.  One  of  the  troopers  took  hold  of  the  end  of  the  chain, 
and  Aladdin  was  obliged  to  follow  him  on  foot  through  the  city 
to  the  sultan's  palace. 

Aladdin  submitted  with  astonishment  to  this  severe  treat- 
ment. The  officer  could  not  tell  him  the  reason  of  it,  nor 
could  his  own  imagination  suggest  it.  When  he  was  brought  ? 
Into  the  royal  presence,  the  sultan,  without  deigning  to  speak 
to  him,  ordered  the  executioner  to  take  off  his  head.  Aladdin 
was  stripped,  bound,  and  kneeling  to  receive  the  fatal  stroke 
when  an  accident  happened,  which  obliged  the  sultan  reluo 
kantly  to  suspend  his  fate. 


*36  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

Tbe  conducting  Aladdin  through  the  city  with  so  much  dis- 
grace, alarmed  and  irritated  the  people,  by  whom  he  was 
universally  beloved.  A  large  mob  followed  the  party  to  the 
palace ;  and  as  the  news  spread,  the  mob  increased.  People 
of  all  descriptions  joined  them,  and  a  great  disturbance  ensued. 
Part  of  the  rioters  were  so  bold  as  to  force  the  gates,  otherg 
scaled  the  walls  of  the  palace.  The  sultan  was  terrified. 
He  ordered  Aladdin  to  be  unbound,  and  bade  the  chiaoux  pro 
flaim  he  had  pardoned  him.  This  satisfied  the  people,  whc 
presently  dispersed. 

When  Aladdin  was  set  at  liberty  he  threw  himself  at  the 
gultan's  feet,  and  begged  to  know  his  crime.  "  Thy  crime, 
perfidious  wretch ! "  replied  the  sultan,  "  dost  thou  not  know 
it?  follow  me;"  and  leading  him  into  his  closet  said,  "thou 
oughtest  to  know  where  thy  palace  stood,  look,  and  tell  me 
what  is  become  of  it." 

Aladdin  seeing  his  palace  was  removed,  was  overwhelmed 
with  grief  and  despair.  The  sultan,  instead  of  being  softened 
by  his  distress,  became  more  and  more  incensed.  "  Caitiff," 
said  he,  "  produce  my  daughter,  whom  I  value  a  thousand 
times  beyond  thy  palace,  or  no  consideration  shall  restrain  me 
from  putting  thee  to  death." 

"  I  beseech  your  majesty,"  replied  Aladdin,  "  to  give  me 
forty  days  to  search  for  my  dear  princess ;  if  at  the  end  of 
that  time  I  am  unsuccessful,  I  do  solemnly  swear  I  will  return, 
and  deliver  myself  into  your  hands."  "Begone  then," 
answered  the  sultan ;  "  but  know,  that  if  you  break  this  oath, 
you  shall  not  escape  my  resentment  My  rage  shall  pursue 
you,  if  you  do  not  produce  my  daughter,  JH  whatever  part  o/ 
Ihe  world  you  may  vainly  attempt  to  hide  yourself." 

Aladdin  left  the  sultan,  covered  with  confusion.  As  he  went 
aut  of  the  palace,  he  experienced  the  vanity  of  that  adulation 
which  is  usually  offered  to  persons  in  prosperity.  Among  the 
officers  of  the  court,  some  pitied,  some  insulted  him ;  but  no  one 
offered  him  comfort  or  assistance.  HP  passed  on  to  the  city, 
about  which  he  rambled  for  three  days.  His  senses  became 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  157 

Iisturbed ;  and  he  asked  every  one  he  met,  if  he  could  tell 
him  any  news  of  his  palace. 

Tired  at  last  of  wandering  about  the  streets,  he  strolled 
into  the  country ;  and  coming  to  the  side  of  a  river,  as  h0 
was  indulging  his  grief,  and  pensively  watching  the  undulation 
of  the  water,  the  ground  he  stood  on  gave  way.  and  he  would 
have  fallen  into  the  river,  if  he  had  not  caught  hold  of  a  rock< 
which  supported  him.  In  recovering  himself,  he  pressed  the 
ring,  he  had  formerly  received  from  the  African  magician,  very 
hard.  The  genie  immediately  appeared  and  made  him  the 
usual  offer  of  his  services. 

Aladdin  recovering  at  once  from  his  despair,  cried  out,  "  0 
genie,  preserve  my  life  a  second  time,  by  bringing  back  my 
palace  to  the  place  where  it  stood." 

"  That  I  cannot  do,"  replied  the  genie ;  "  you  must  addresa 
yourself  to  the  slave  of  the  lamp."  "  At  least,"  said  Aladdin, 
*  convey  me  to  the  place  where  it  stands,  and  set  me  down 
under  the  princess  Badroulboudour's  window."  These  words 
were  no  sooner  uttered,  than  the  genie  transported  him  tc 
Africa,  and  set  him  down  as  he  had  desired. 

It  was  night  when  Aladdin  found  himself  under  the  window 
of  the  princess.  As  he  knew  not  who  might  be  within,  he 
determined  not  to  enter  it  till  morning.  He  sat  down  at  the 
root  of  a  large  tree,  and  began  to  consider  within  himself 
from  whence  his  misfortunes  proceeded.  He  recollected  how 
carelessly  he  had  left  his  inestimable  lamp ;  and  doubted  not 
but  that  carelessness  was  the  source  of  all  his  sorrows.  But 
how  it  should  fall  into  the  hands  of  any  one  who  knew  its  use, 
was  wonderful ;  and  still  more  so,  that  the  present  possessor 
should  have  so  much  ill-will  to  him,  as  to  remove  the  princes 
and  her  palace. 

Amidst  these  contemplations,  the  fatigue  and  grief  he  had 
iiistained  overcame  him,  and  he  fell  asleep ;  but  waking  very 
early  in  the  morning,  he  had  the  satisfaction  ;£  seeing  thr 
princess  at  her  window ;  for  *?om  the  time  of  her  removal 
wrrow  had  driven  sleep  f  \  her  eyelids.  Badroulboudou 

12* 


l38  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

ioun  perceived  him.  She  durst  not  converse  with  him  frou 
her  window ;  but  made  signs  to  him,  that  he  should  repair  to 
the  backdoor,  where  a  trusty  slave  attended  to  admit  him,  and 
to  conduct  him  to  his  beloved  princess. 

When  the  joy  of  their  meeting  had  a  little  subsided,  Bad* 
roulboudour  soon  explained  to  him  the  •  source  of  their 
misfortune,  by  telling  him  they  were  in  Africa.  She  related 
to  him  the  manner  in  which  the  magician  had  obtained  the 
lamp,  which  he  now  constantly  carried  in  his  bosom;  and 
idded,  that  he  every  day  paid  her  one  visit,  and  audaciously 
presumed  to  solicit  her  love ;  assuring  her,  that  her  husband 
sad  fallen  a  victim  to  the  sultan's  anger. 

Aladdin  having  heard  all  these  particulars,  besought  the 
princess  to  permit  him  to  go  to  a  neighbouring  town.  "  This 
man,"  said  he,  "  in  whose  power  we  now  are,  is  the  most 
subtle,  and  the  most  wicked  of  mankind.  Yet  as  he  can  have 
no  idea  that  I  am  at  hand,  I  think  we  shall  be  able  to  evade 
his  malice.  When  he  comes  to  you  to-day,"  continued  Alad- 
din, "  receive  him  with  less  reserve  than  usual ;  seem  as  if 
you  "would  shortly  be  reconciled  to  your  situation ;  invite  him 
to  sup  with  you,  and  leave  the  rest  to  me." 

Aladdin  then  went  into  the  town,  and  bought  of  a  druggist 
half  a  drachm  of  a  certain  powder,  with  which  he  returned  to 
the  palace.  This  he  gave  to  the  princess,  with  instructions 
how  to  use  it ;  and  then  retired  to  a  closet,  lest  he  should  be 
discovered.  The  magician  paid  his  usual  visit  to  the  princess, 
in  the  course  of  the  day,  and  was  glad  to  find  her  in  much 
better  spirits  than  before.  She  had  now,  for  the  first  time 
since  in  his  power,  dressed  herself  elegantly ;  she  conversed 
with  him  with  freedom ;  and  even  heard  him  talk  of  love, 
without  showing  much  disgust.  When  he  was  about  to 
depart,  she  pretended  a  desire  to  taste  the  wines  of  Africa, 
and  desired  he  would  provide  her  some  of  the  best,  and  corns 
*nd  sup  with  her. 

The  wily  African,  with  all  his  cunning,  allowed  himself  tc 
M  deceived  His  nature  was  not  capable  cf  generous  love 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  151 

i  %  incomparable  beauty  of  the  princess  Imd,  indeed,  excited 
ft)  'iim  a  coarse  and  beastly  desire,  which  he  hoped  now  ta 
g»  *tify^  and  while  he  thought  himself  secure  of  his  expected 
enjoyment,  he  laughed  at  and  reviled  in  his  heart  the  versa- 
tility of  the  sex,  to  which  he  ascribed  his  success. 

In  the  evening  he  did  not  fail  to  attend  the  princess,  who 
received  him  in  the  most  flattering  manner.  After  supper, 
when  the  wine  was  set  before  them,  the  princess  gave 
an  appointed  signal  to  her  attendant.  A  gold  cup  was 
presented  to  the  magician,  and  another  to  the  princess.  In 
her  cup  was  the  powder  procured  by  Aladdin.  Wine  being 
poured  out,  the  princess  told  the  magician,  that  in  China,  it 
was  the  custom  for  lovers  to  exchange  cups,  and  at  the  same 
time,  held  out  her  cup  to  him.  He  eagerly  made  the 
exchange;  and  putting  the  cup  he  had  received  from  her 
to  his  lips,  he  drank  a  little  of  the  wine,  and  immediately 
expired. 

When  the  magician  fell  down,  Aladdin,  who  had  watched 
the  event,  entered  the  hall ;  and  running  to  the  body,  found 
the  lamp  carefully  wrapped  up  in  his  bosom.  He  retired 
again  to  the  closet,  and  summoning  the  genie,  commanded 
him  to  restore  the  palace  to  its  former  situation ;  which  he  did 
accordingly,  those  within  it  only  feeling  two  slight  shocks,  one 
when  it  was  lifted  up,  the  other  when  it  was  set  down,  and 
both  in  a  short  interval  of  time. 

The  sultan  had  continued  inconsolable  for  the  loss  of  his 
daughter.  As  it  had  been  his  custom  formerly  to  go  often 
into  his  closet  to  admire  Aladdin's  palace,  he  now  did  so  for 
very  different  reasons.  Every  morning,  and  often  in  the  day- 
time, he  retired  there,  to  indulge  his  sorrow  for  the  loss  of  his 
beloved  daughter.  The  morning  after  the  return  of  the 
palace,  the  sultan  entered  his  closet,  unusually  sad;  when 
going  to  the  window,  he  had  the  joyful  surprise  to  see  it  again 
in  its  place.  He  flew  thither,  and  embraced  his  daughter  with 
tears  of  joy  ;  lor  was  she  less  affected. 

When  their  transports  were  a  little  abated,  the  princes  8  le 


1 40  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

lated  to  her  father  everything  that  had  befallen  her.  She  took 
upon  herself  the  whole  blame  of  changing  the  lamp,  and  mag 
nilied  the  merit  of  her  husband  in  having  so  soon  found  hei 
out  and  delivering  her.  The  sultan  embraced  Aladdin,  and 
they  forgave  each  other.  The  dead  body  of  the  magician  was 
thrown  upon  a  dunghill ;  and  the  whole  city  rejoiced  at  the 
safe  return  of  Aladdin  and  the  princess. 

The  happiness  of  Aladdin  was  not  yet  secured.  Thoagh 
the  magician  was  dead,  he  had  left  a  brother  as  wicked  and  af 
powerful  as  himself.  It  was  the  custom  of  these  brethren  to 
inform  themselves  by  their  art,  once  a  year,  where  each  other 
was,  ani  whether  either  of  them  stood  in  need  of  the  others 
assistance. 

When  the  customary  period  arrived,  all  the  particulars  of 
the  African  magician's  death  became  known  to  his  brother,  by 
ais  skill  in  necromancy.  On  finding  such  a  fatal  account,  he 
pursued  his  art,  till  by  it  he  became  acquainted  with  his 
brother's  intercourse  with  Aladdin,  and  with  Aladdin's  present 
situation.  Having  learnt  all  these  things,  instead  of  indulging 
a  fruitless  grief,  he  set  out  for  the  capital  of  China,  to  gratify 
his  revenge. 

He  crossed  plains,  rivers,  mountains,  deserts,  and  seas,  with 
incredible  fatigue,  till  he  arrived  there  safely.  After  a  short 
repose,  he  went  continually  to  places  of  public  resort,  to 
acquaint  himself  with  the  customs  of  the  people,  and  Aladdin's 
mode  of  living ;  intending  to  form  from  thence  a  plan  to  de 
stroy  him. 

Among  other  things,  he  often  heard  of  one  Fatima,  a  holy 
woman,  who  resided  in  a  hermitage  near  the  city,  and  used 
now  and  then  to  come  to  it.  Her  piety  was  everywhere  spo- 
ken of.  They  even  declared  that  she  had  the  power  of  work- 
ing miracles ;  and  particularly,  that  she  never  failed  to  cure 
any  person  who  had  the  headache,  by  putting  her  hand  on 
«hem. 

From  all  this,  the  magician  formed  a  plot^  which  he  pu! 
01  execution  in  this  manne" :  —  He  found  out  the  cell  of  the 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  14\ 

Soly  woman,  and  went  to  her  under  pretence  of  beinj;  mud 
afflicted  with  the  headache.  By  this  means  he  had  an  oppor* 
tunity  of  observing  her  appearance  and  manner  of  conversation. 
He  returned  to  the  city,  and  passed  the  evening  in  one  of  those 
houses  where  they  sell  hot  liquors,  and  where  any  person  may 
Btay  all  night  if  he  chooses.  About  midnight  he  set  out  again 
for  Fatima's  cell.  The  holy  woman  was  fast  asleep  in  her 
slothes,  on  a  mattrass.  He  awakened  her,  and  clapping  a 
dagger  to  her  breast,  bade  her  get  up  and  be  silent. 

Fatima  was  much  frightened,  but  thought  it  best  to  obey 
him.  He  then  ordered  her  to  change  clothes  with  him.  This 
done,  he  took  out  a  vessel  holding  a  certain  liquor,  and  a  brush, 
and  commanded  Fatima  to  color  his  face  that  it  might  resemble 
her's ;  but  perceiving  the  poor  creature  trembled  so  much  that 
she  was  unable  to  obey  him,  he  encouraged  her,  and  swore  to 
her  by  the  name  of  God  that  he  would  not  hurt  her.  Comforted 
by  this  assurance,  she  painted  his  face,  put  on  him  her  coif  and 
beads,  and  giving  him  her  stick,  she  showed  him  how  he  ought 
to  walk  to  appear  like  her.  Being  thus  completely  able  to 
pass  for  Fatima,  he,  without  the  least  regard  to  his  oath, 
strangled  her,  and  threw  her  into  a  cistern. 

In  the  morning  he  returned  to  the  city,  where  he  imitated  , 
the  holy  woman  so  well,  that  every  one  believed  it  was  her,  P 
and  crowded  for  her  benediction.  He  went  directly  towards 
Aladdin's  palace,  and  the  multitude  attending  him  being  no- 
ticed by  the  princess,  she  inquired  the  cause  of  it.  Badroul 
boudour  had  often  heard  of  the  holy  woman,  but  had  never 
seen  her.  Sh  e  sent  therefore  to  desire  to  speak  with  her.  The 
magician  was  overjoyed.  He  counterfeited  Fatima  with  great 
exactness  ;  and  when  introduced,  by  affecting  great  piety  and 
mortification,  by  a  long  prayer,  and  many  vows  for  her  pros- 
perity, the  detestable  hypocrite  gained  the  esteem  of  the  cred- 
ulous princess,  who  was  too  good  herself  to  distrust  others. 

After  a  long  conversation,  the  magician  artfully  dropped  a 
bint  at  the  splendor  of  the  palace.  The  princess,  thinking  the 
?ight  of  the  magnificent  hall  must  give  pleasure  even  to  ai 


I  42  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

anchorite,  conducted  the  false  Fatima  thithur,  and  asked  LtJi 
how  she  liked  that  building.  "  I  am  not,"  replied  the  magicum, 
*  a  judge  of  these  fine  things  ;  but  I  think  if  a  roc's  egg  was 
hung  up  in  the  midst  of  the  dome,  the  whole  would  be  com- 
plete. There  is  one  on  the  top  of  mount  Caucasus ;  and  the 
architect  who  built  your  palace  can  procure  it  for  you." 

This  conversation  the  princess  paid  much  attention  to.  Sfce 
had  ever  considered  that  hall  as  the  grandest  and  most  elegai  f 
building  in  the  world  ;  and  she  could  not  bear  it  should  want 
anything  to  make  it  absolutely  perfect.  She  led  the  supposed 
holy  woman  into  another  apartment,  and  requested  her  to  con- 
tinue with  her  the  remainder  of  the  day ;  to  which,  with  appa- 
rent reluctance,  but  with  real  joy,  the  deceiver  consented. 

When  Aladdin  returned  from  council,  the  princess  met  him, 
and  desired  he  would  have  a  roc's  egg  hung  up  in  the  dome 
of  the  hall,  telling  him  at  the  same  time  where  there  was  one. 
Aladdin,  who  was  always  desirous  of  pleasing  the  princess, 
went  immediately  to  the  hall,  and  summoning  the  genie,  said, 
"  there  is  a  roc's  egg  on  mount  Caucasus,  which  I  would  have 
thee  bring,  and  hang  up  in  this  dome."  These  words  were  no 
sooner  uttered,  than  the  genie  set  up  a  fearful  cry,  after  which 
he  said  to  Aladdin,  "  Wretch  !  is  it  not  enough  that  I  and  my 
companions  have  done  so  much  for  thee,  but  thou  must  com- 
mand me  to  bring  my  master,  and  hang  him  up  in  thy  hall  ?  It 
is  well  for  thee  that  thou  art  not  the  author  of  this  ungrateful 
request.  Know  then,  that  the  deviser  of  it  is  the  brother  of 
the  African  magician.  He  has  murdered  Fatima,  and  is  now 
with  thy  wife,  disguised  to  resemble  that  holy  woman.  It  was 
he  who  suggested  this  demand  to  the  princess,  by  which  he 
hoped  to  have  involved  you  both  in  ruin.  He  will  now  endeavor 
to  kill  thee  ;  look  therefore  to  thyself."  After  these  words,  the 
genie,  snatching  the  lamp  from  Aladdin's  hand,  disappeared. 

As  soon  as  Aladdin  had  recovered  from  his  surprise,  he 
determined  at  once  what  measures  to  pursue.  He  went  intc 
ihe  chamber  where  the  princess  and  the  magician  were  con- 
reraing  together,  and  pretended  to  have  the  headache,  desirinj 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  143 

die  false  Fatima  to  cure  it.  The  magician,  oveijoyed,  ap 
preached  with  a  dagger  in  one  hand  concealed  under  his 
clothes  ;  as  he  drew  near,  Aladdin  seized  him  by  that  arm,  and 
in  an  instant,  with  his  own  dagger,  put  an  end  to  his  ;>erniciou* 
life. 

Though  Aladdin  was  much  grieved  for  the  loss  of  his  lamp 
yet  he  consoled  himself,  as  by  the  death  of  the  magician  hii 
peace  was  secured.  He  succeeded  some  years  afterwards  to 
the  throne  of  China,  on  which  he  reigned  with  his  princess  to  * 
good  old  age,  and  left  behind  him  a  numerous  posterity. 

The  Story  of  Little  Hunchback.  ^ 

AT  Casgar,  on  the  borders  of  Tartary,  there  lived  a  tailor,  2 
cheerful,  hospitable  fellow,  who  had  a  very  deserving  wife  that 
he  was  fond  of.  One  evening,  as  he  was  leaving  off  work,  a 
little  deformed  man  sat  down  near  his  shop,  and  taking  out  a 
lute,  played  and  sung  very  melodiously.  The  tailor  was  much 
pleased  with  his  performance,  and  thinking  to  amuse  his  wife, 
he  took  Hunchback  home  to  sup  with  him.  Their  supper 
consisted  of  a  large  dish  of  fish.  Unluckily,  the  crooked  gen 
tleman  swallowed  a  bone,  of  which  he  died  in  a  few  minutes, 
notwithstanding  his  hosts  gave  him  every  assistance  in  their 
power. 

The  tailor  and  his  wife  were  exceedingly  frightened  at  thia 
accident ;  and  dreading  the  consequences  of  the  body  being 
found  in  their  apartment,  they  conveyed  it  to  the  house  of  a 
Jew  doctor,  who  lived  not  far  off.  The  tailor  supported  the 
body,  as  if  it  was  a  sick  man,  and  his  wife  gave  the  doctor's 
servant  a  piece  of  gold,  and  desired  he  would  come  to  them 
immediately.  The  maid  went  up  to  her  master,  and  the  tailor 
and  his  wife  nimbly  following  her,  carried  the  body  to  the  top 
of  the  stairs,  and  leaning  it  against  the  wainscot,  hastened  awaj 
RS  quickly  as  possible. 

The  doctor,  notwithstanding  his  skill,  was  exceedingly  poor 
Ths  piece  of  gold  he  received,  gave  him  a  good  opinion  of  hii* 


•44  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

patient.  He  ordered  his  servant  to  follow  with  the  light,  and 
running  to  the  stairs,  he  knocked  the  body  down  to  the  bottom 
of  them.  When  the  light  came,  the  Jew,  finding  the  corpse 
warm,  made  no  question  but  that  the  sick  man  had  expired  in 
consequence  of  the  fall.  He  gave  himself  up  to  despair ,  but 
his  wife,  more  fertile  in  invention,  contrived  the  means  of 
avoiding  the  danger.  She  advised  the  Jew  to  take  Hunchback 
to  the  top  of  the  house,  and  by  means  of  ropes  to  lower  him 
down  a  neighboring  chimney. 

The  apartment  into  which  little  Hunchback  was  now  con 
veyed  belonged  to  a  Mussulman,  who  was  purveyor  of  pro- 
visions to  the  sultan.  When  he  came  home,  and  saw  by  the 
light  of  his  lantern  a  man  standing  upright  in  his  chimney,  he 
was  exceedingly  enraged.  The  purveyor  had  frequently  lost 
part  of  his  stores,  and  not  doubting  but  that  he  had  now  de- 
tected the  thief,  he  resolved  to  punish  him  severely.  He  caned 
therefore  the  supposed  culprit  very  heartily ;  but  as  he  neither 
moved  nor  cried  out,  he  left  off  beating  him,  and  holding  up 
the  light,  perceived  that  he  was  dead.  Terror  now  almost 
deprived  the  purveyor  of  his  senses.  He  questioned  not  but 
that  the  man  was  killed  by  his  blows ;  and  he  well  knew  the 
punishment  he  must  expect  if  he  was  discovered. 

To  avoid  this,  he  waited  till  an  hour  after  midnight,  and  when 
everything  was  still  in  the  streets,  took  the  body  on  his  baok, 
with  many  execrations,  and  conveyed  it  to  the  door  of  a  shop 
a  little  distance  off;  where  placing  Hunchback  on  his  feet,  he 
left  him  and  flew  back  to  his  own  house,  fortunately  without 
meeting  a  person. 

A  few  minutes  before  daybreak,  a  Christian  merchant  who 
had  been  up  all  night,  debauching,  passed  by  that  way.  Though 
he  was  drunk,  he  knew  the  time  drew  near  when  people  are 
called  to  early  prayers,  and  that  he  was  liable  to  punishment 
for  being  found  in  the  street  in  that  condition.  Seeing  the 
patrol  approaching,  he  sought  to  conceal  himself,  by  standing 
up  close  to  the  same  shop  door  where  the  purveyor  had  left 
Hunchback.  The  body  being  jostled  by  the  merchant,  tumbled 


ENTER  TAIKMENTS.  *4l 

ipon  him ;  and  the  Christian  supposing  it  was  a  thief,  threw 
him  down,  fell  upon  him,  and  continued  beating  him,  crying 
vut,  "  thieves/' 

The  outcry  alarmed  the  watch,  who  came  up  immediately 
and  finding  a  Christian  beating  a  Mussulman,  demanded  the 
meaning  of  such  an  outrage.  "  He  would  have  robbed  me," 
replied  the  merchant,  "  and  jumped  upon  me,  with  intent  to- 
take  me  by  the  throat."  "  You  seem,"  said  the  officer,  "  to  have 
sufficiently  revenged  yourself;  come,  get  off  him," — at  the 
same  time  stooping  to  raise  Hunchback,  he  found  that  he  waa 
dead.  "  Ah,"  exclaimed  he,  "  is  it  thus  that  a  Christian  dares 
to  assassinate  a  Turk  ?  "  Saying  this,  he  seized  the  merchant 
and  dragged  him  to  prison,  till  the  judge  was  ready  to  examine 
him. 

A  sense  of  his  danger  soon  dissipated  the  fumes  of  the  liquoi ; 
Dut  the  more  the  Christian  was  capable  of  thought,  the  less  h«* 
could  account  how  the  few  blows  he  had  struck  ^ould  have 
1>een  fatal,  or  contrive  how  he  should  excuse  himself  to  the 
magistrate,  after  having  accused  the  defunct  with  attempting 
to  rob  him.  In  the  morning,  the  judge  heard  the  relation  of 
the  patrol,  and  as  the  deceased  was  one  of  the  royal  buffoons, 
he  thought  it  his  duty  to  report  the  matter  to  the  sultan.  That 
prince,  enraged  at  the  death  of  his  jester,  and  at  the  boldness 
of  the  Christian  in  killing  a  Turk,  ordered  him  to  be  instantly 
hanged. 

The  merchant  was  led  out  accordingly,  tied  to  the  gibbet, 
and  notwithstanding  his  outcries  and  protestations  of  innocence, 
was  just  about  to  be  put  to  death,  when  the  purveyor  came  uj> 
to  the  judge  and  owned  himself  the  murderer.  While  the 
efficer  was  considering  wnat  measures  to  pursue,  the  Jew  doctor 
unvrd,  and  exculpated  the  purveyor ;  and  presently  after,  the 
ta?lor  took  the  guilt  from  the  Jew,  by  relating  the  manner  of 
Hunchback's  death.  The  judge  conveyed  all  the  parties  before 
the  sultan,  who  heard  their  several  accounts  with  amazement, 
and  addressing  himself  to  the  viziers  and  emirs  of  his  court, 
iemanded  if  they  bad  ever  heard  of  so  strange  an  event  on 
13 


146  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

which  the  ohristian  merchant,  prostrating  hiinsulf,  declared  he 
could  relate  a  story  still  more  wonderful.  The  sultan,  desiroui 
to  hear  it,  directed  him  to  do  so ;  he  obeyed  thus  •  — 


The  Story  told  by  the  Christian  Merchant. 

I  AM  a  stranger  born  at  Cairo,  where,  at  my  father's  death, 
[  sjcceeded  to  his  business,  as  .a  very  considerable  broker, 
One  day,  as  I  was  standing  in  the  public  corn-market,  a  young 
man,  well  dressed,  came  to  me,  and  producing  a  sample  of 
sesame  and  Turkey  corn,  desired  me  to  sell  for  him  an  hun- 
dred and  fifty  bushels  of  it  at  the  best  price  I  could  get.  I 
presently  found  a  purchaser  at  an  hundred  and  ten  drachms  of 
silver  each  bushel.  The  young  man  was  well-pleased  with  my 
bargain,  and  when  the  corn  was  delivered,  I  would  have  paid 
Mm  the  money,  but  he  declined  to  take  it  then  and  went  away, 
leaving  the  whole  produce  of  his  corn  in  my  hands. 

I  frequently  saw  him  afterwards,  and  urged  him  to  receive 
his  money,  but  he  always  evaded  it.  At  last  he  stayed  away  for 
a  whole  year ;  and  when  he  came  he  was  dressed  richer  than 
usual,  but  he  was  very  thoughtful.  I  pressed  him  as  before  to 
take  his  money,  and  added  an  earnest  invitation  for  him  to 
enter  my  house  and  dine  with  me,  which  at  length  he  complied 
«nth. 

At  dinner  I  perceived  my  guest  fed  himself  with  his  left 
<mnd.  I  could  not  conceive  the  cause  of  his  treating  me  so 
contemptuously.  I  restrained  myself  till  we  had  dined,  when 
presenting  him  with  some  lozenges,  which  he  took  in  the  same 
manner,  I  en  treat  ad  him  to  -xplain  the  mystery  to  me.  After 
dropping  a  tear,  he  threv  back  his  garment,  and  producing 
his  right  arm,  I  saw  it  wa^  without  a  hand.  I  was  so  shocked 
at  this  discovery,  that  I  ,^it  in  silence.  The  young  man.  hav- 
ing recovered  from  hi?  confusion,  addressed  himself  to  me 
nearly  as  follows :  — 

"The  good  opinion  I  have  formed  of  you,  induces  me  t* 
reveal  my  misfortune  to  you,  and  the  cause  of  it. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  I'tt 

"I  am  a  native  of  Bagdad.  On  the  death  of  my  fathei  wh  . 
was  a  considerable  merchant,  I  resolved  to  travel.  Accor** 
ingly  I  packed  up  many  bales  of  rich  stuffs,  and  other  valuabl 
merchandize,  and  arrived  safely  with  them  here.  But  when 
I  exposed  them  for  sale,  the  merchants  thinking  to  take  advan- 
tage of  my  youth  and  inexperience,  did  not  bid  me  the  first 
cost.  One  of  the  criers  of  the  Bezestein  perceiving  how  much 
I  was  vexed  at  this  treatment,  advised  me  to  divide  my  goods 
among  the  dealers,  who  would  sell  them  on  my  account  and 
settle  with  me  twice  a  week.  I  followed  this  advice,  whirl 
proved  very  useful  to  me. 

"  One  morning,  as  I  sat  in  a  dealer's  shop,  a  lady  came  in 
and  sat  down  by  me.  I  was  much  taken  with  her  graceful 
carriage  and  fine  form,  and  gazed  at  her  with  great  attention. 
She  observed  this,  and  under  pretence  of  adjusting  her  veil, 
she  contrived  to  let  me  see  her  face,  which  was  so  beautiful, 
that  she  entirely  completed  the  conquest  of  my  heart.  She 
desired  the  shop-keeper  to  show  her  some  gold  stuffs,  and  I 
was  happy  to  see  her  fix  on  one  of  mine.  She  agreed  with 
him  for  the  price,  but  not  having  money  enough  in  her  purse 
to  pay  for  it,  she  wished  to  take  it  home,  and  promised  to  return 
next  day  with  the  money.  This  the  dealer  refused.  I  put  an 
end  to  the  dispute,  by  entreating  the  lady  to  accept  the  piece 
of  stuff ;  which  she  would  only  do  on  condition .  that  I  would 
meet  her  next  day,  and  receive  the  money  for  it.  To  this  1 
was  forced  to  consent,  and  when  the  lady  withdrew,  she  thanked 
me  in  the  most  engaging  manner  for  my  civility ;  adding, 4  May 
God  reward  you  in  enlarging  your  fortune !  may  you  live 
many  years  when  I  am  dead !  may  the  gate  of  heaven  be 
opened  to  you  when  you  remove  to  the  other  world !  and  may 
all  the  city  proclaim  your  generosity ! ' 

u  My  heart  became  at  once  entirely  attached  to  this  lovelj? 
tfoman.  I  returned  home  in  great  agitation;  and  alreadi 
began  to  wish  for  the  approach  of  the  next  day.  I  coulc 
neither  eat  nor  sleep ;  and  after  a  night  which  seemed  th« 
longest  I  had  >,ver  known,  I  dressed  myself  with  particulai 


1 48  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

attention,  akd  hastened  to  the  shop.  The  lady  came,  and  pafc 
me  the  money  ;  after  which  we  entered  into  conversation.  I 
embraced  this  opportunity  of  telling  her  how  much  I  was  de« 
voted  to  her  ;  on  which  she  was  overspread  with  blushes,  and 
rising  hastily,  though  without  showing  displeasure,  she  quitted 
the  shop. 

*  I  durst  not  venture  to  follow  her ;  and  having  made  inquiry 
cf  the  shop-keeper  who  she  was,  to  very  little  purpose,  I  was 
returning  home  pensively,  when  I  felt  some  one  pull  my  sleeve, 
and  was  agreeably  surprised  to  see  it  was  the  lady's  slave 
rihe  whispered  me  softly  to  follow  her  at  a  distance,  and  led 
me  to  a  handsome  house  where  I  found  her  mistress.  The 
lady  had  thrown  off  the  habit  usual  in  the  streets,  and  appeared 
richly  dressed,  and  so  charming,  that  if  I  loved  her  before,  I 
adored  her  now.  She  apologized  for  having  left  me  so  ab- 
ruptly;  <Idid  not  think  fit,' continued  she, 4  to  give  youk  a 
favorable  answer  in  the  hearing  of  the  shop-keeper,  but  to  deal 
frankly  with  you,  I  think  myself  happy  to  have  a  man  of  so 
much  merit  for  my  lover.'  I  threw  myself  at  her  feet,  in  a 
transport  of  joy  at  this  welcome  declaration  ;  when  the  lady, 
raising  me  tenderly,  desired  me  to  enter  an  adjoining  apart- 
ment, and  take  part  of  an  entertainment  she  had  prepared 
for  me. 

"  From  this  time  there  commenced  between  us  a  most  tender 
uid  intimate  union.  I  passed  all  the  time  I  could  spare  from 
my  serious  concerns  with  Margiana,  (for  so  was  the  lady 
called,)  who  always  received  me  with  joy,  and  entertained  me 
tplendidly.  As  I  was  sensible  this  was  attended  with  great 
•xpense,  I  used  to  leave  regularly  a  purse  of  gold  on  the  sofa 
Khan  I  came  away.  I  continued  to  do  so,  till  I  had  sold  all 
ay  goods ;  when  I  found  myself,  all  at  once,  without  money 
TT  the  means  of  obtaining  any. 

"  In  this  desperate  condition  I  walked  out  of  my  lodging, 
Mid,  careless  which  way  I  went,  strolled  by  chance  towards  the 
rustle,  where  there  was  a  great  crowd  waiting  to  see  the  sultan, 
Among  */iem  was  a  handsome  cavalier,  well  mounted,  wbo  bad 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  14$ 

flpon  the  bow  of  his  saddle  a  bag  half  open,  with  a  green  sill 
Uring  hanging  out,  which  I  had  no  doubt  was  the  string  of  • 
purse.  A  porter  passing  by  on  the  other  side  with  a  load  of 
wood,  went  so  near  the  gentleman  as  obliged  him  to  turn  hu 
head  that  way,  to  avoid  being  rubbed  by  the  wood.  In  that 
minute  did  the  devil  tempt  me.  I  seized  the  string  and  pulled 
out  the  purse,  so  dexterously,  that  none  of  the  by-standers  per- 
ceived me,  and  I  had  the  satisfaction  to  feel  that  it  was  very 
full  of  money. 

"  But  though  I  had  escaped  the  notice  of  the  crowd  about 
me,  the  owner  of  the  purse  was  more  attentive.  No  soonei 
was  he  disengaged  from  the  porter,  than  missing  his  purse,  he 
knocked  me  down.  This  violence  shocked  the  by-standers ; 
some  of  whom  seized  his  bridle,  and  demanded  how  he  dared 
to  treat  a  Mussulman  in  such  a  manner  ?  '  I  have  reason 
enough/  replied  he  briskly, '  this  fellow  is  a  thief.'  Every  one 
took  my  part  still  more,  saying  it  was  incredible  that  a  young 
man  of  my  appearance  should  be  guilty  of  so  base  an  action. 
But  while  they  held  his  horse  to  favor  my  escape,  unfortu- 
nately the  judiciary  judge  came  by,  and  seeing  a  crowd,  de- 
manded the  cause. 

"  The  judge  heard  the  charge  against  me,  and  far  from  suf- 
fering the  opinion  of  the  by-standers  to  bias  hkn,  he  orders  I 
me  to  be  searched ;  when  to  my  utter  confusion,  the  purse  wa ' 
presently  found  and  exposed  to  the  view  of  all  the  people 
My  shame  was  so  great  that  I  swooned  away.  The  judgf 
restored  the  purse  to  the  owner,  and,  on  my  recovery,  admon- 
ished me  to  confess  the  truth,  and  save  myself  from  the  tor 
ture.  I  acknowledged  my  guilt ;  and  the  judge  ordered  mj 
right  hand  to  be  instantly  cut  off,  which  was*  done  accordingly 
He  was  proceeding  to  direct  my  foot  to  be  cut  off  also ;  but  the 
cavalier  interceding  for  me,  he  permitted  me  to  depart  without 
"urther  punishment. 

"  As  soon  as  the  judge  was  gone,  the  cavalier  presented  me 
with  the  fatal  purse,  saying,  '  I  see  plainly  it  was  necessity  put 
fou  en  an  action  so  unworthy  of  you,  and  I  am  heartily 

13* 


150  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

for  your  misfortune.'  One  of  the  people  observing  I  was  faint 
with  the  loss  of  blood,  and  overcome  with  grief  aLd  shame, 
nad  the  charity  to  take  me  into  his  house,  where  he  caused  my 
arm  to  be  dressed,  and  gave  me  every  proper  refreshment. 

"  In  the  evening  I  went  to  Margiana.  I  expected  that  aftei 
FO  infamous  a  transaction,  she  would  drive  me  from  her,  as 
utterly  unworthy  her  notice  ;  but  knowing  it  was  impossible  to 
conceal  the  loss  of  my  hand,  I  determined  to  meet  at  once  the 
utmost  of  my  misery.  On  my  arrival  I  threw  myself  on  a 
sofa,  overspent  with  weakness  and  sorrow :  Margiana,  hearing 
of  my  arrival,  and  that  I  was  indisposed,  hastened  to  me,  and 
endeavoured  to  comfort  me :  I  answered  her  only  with  sighs 
and  tears ;  which  induced  her  to  fill  me  a  large  cup  of  wine 
and  entreat  me  to  drink  it.  *  You  are  too  much  dejected/  said 
she ;  *  drink  this,  which  will  exhilarate  your  spirits,  and  then 
explain  to  me  the  cause  of  this  uncommon  sorrow.' 

"  I  held  out  my  left  hand  to  receive  the  cup,  and  the  ne- 
cessity of  doing  so,  increased  my  affliction.  Soon  after  the 
fumes  of  the  wine,  added  to  my  fatigue  and  weakness,  over- 
came me,  and  I  fell  into  a  deep  sleep,  which  lasted  till  morning. 
While  I  slept,  Margiana  lifted  up  my  cloak,  and  seeing  me 
without  my  right  hand,  was  at  no  loss  to  account  for  my  dis- 
tress. In  the  morning  she  would  not  suffer  me  to  depart,  but 
attended  me  in  person  till  I  was  completely  recovered.  She 
then  led  me  to  a  large  trunk,  which  she  opened,  saying,  <  here 
are  all  the  purses  you  have  left  ivith  me ;  I  have  not  touched 
one  of  th^m ;  would  to  heaven  you  had  placed  so  much  confi- 
dence in  me  as  to  have  explained  your  situation.  These  I 
insist  on  your  receiving  again,  and  as  I  feel  I  cannot  survive 
the  disgrace  I  have  brought  upon  you,  I  will  send  for  a  notary, 
and  leave  you  my  whole  fortune,  which  is  very  considerable." 

"  She  made  her  will  accordingly ;  nor  could  my  utmost  ten- 
ierness  prevent  her  sinking,  as  she  had  foretold,  under  the 
*ense  of  my  misfortune.  She  languished  a  few  weeks,  and 
then  expired  in  my  arms." 

The  sultan  of  Casgar  was  displeased  with  the  presumption 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  1T>1 

t)f  the  Christian  merchant,  in  comparing  this  story  to  that  ol 
little  Hunchback ;  which  the  purveyor  seeing,  he  entreated 
permission  to  relate  a  story  more  worthy  the  ear  of  the  sultap 

The  Story  told  by  the  Purveyor. 

I  WAS  yesterday  invited  to  a  sumptuous  entertainment,  one 
course  of  which  was  served  up  with  garlic  sauce  so  excellent, 
that  all  the  company  extolled  it  except  one,  who  declined  to 
partake  of  it ;  the  master  of  the  house  recommending  it  to 
him,  he  replied,  "  I  remember  too  well  what  the  tasting  of  such 
a  dish  once  cost  me.  Yet  if  you  persist  in  urging  me,  I  will 
comply,  provided  you  will  permit  me  to  wash  my  hands  forty 
times  with  alkali,  forty  times  with  ashes  of  the  same  plant,  and 
forty  times  with  soap."  The  curiosity  of  our  host  being  now 
excited,  he  pressed  his  guest  more  earnestly ;  and  ordered  his 
servants  to  provide  the  necessaries  for  this  extraordinary 
ablution.  The  visitor,  who  was  a  merchant,  submitted, 
though  with  evident  displeasure.  He  put  a  little  garlic  to  his 
mouth,  trembling,  and  ate  it  with  great  reluctance;  after 
which  he  arose,  and  washed  his  hands,  as  he  had  conditioned 
to  do.  We  were  all  surprised  at  this  scene,  and  the  more  so, 
as  we  perceived  the  merchant  had  lost  both  his  thumbs. 

When  the  washings  were  over,  the  master  of  the  house 
apologized  to  his  guest,  and  besought  him  to  take  his  seat 
again  at  the  table,  and  inform  the  company  why  he  had  such 
an  aversion  to  garlic,  and  also  how  he  became  thus  maimed  ? 
The  merchant  with  great  good  nature  complied. 

"I  was  born,"  said  he,  "at  Bagdad;  my  father  war 
esteemed  one  of  the  richest  merchants  of  the  city ;  but  a 
his  death,  it  appeared  that  he  had  lived  too  expensively :  I  hac 
scarce  enough  left  to  pay  his  debts  and  bury  him.  Though 
I  found  myself  poor,  when  I  expected  the  contrary,  I  did  no/ 
suffer  my  spirits  to  be  dejected ;  but  took  a  shop,  and  bj 
Industry  and  rare,  my  little  tortune  began  to  increase  beyond 
oiy  hope. 


152  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

"  One  day  a  lady  attended  by  an  eunucn  and  two  femaU 
slaves  came  into  my  shop,  and  desired  to  see  some  of  th« 
richest  and  finest  stuffs.  I  modestly  told  her  that  I  was  not 
rich  enough  to  deal  in  such  expensive  goods ;  but  added,  if 
she  chose  to  stay  in  my  shop  till  the  merchant  cmne,  I  would 
fetch  what  she  wanted  at  the  lowest  price.  She  accepted  my 
offer,  and  as  there  were  very  few  people  in  the  bezestein,  she 
threw  off  her  veil,  for  the  benefit  of  the  air,  and  conversed 
with  me  very  affably.  Her  wit  and  beauty  so  charmed  me, 
that  I  became  deeply  enamoured :  and  when  she  took  away 
with  her  as  many  goods,  which  I  had  procured,  as  came  to  five 
thousand  drachms  of  silver,  I  gazed  after  her  as  long  as  she 
continued  in  sight,  without  once  considering  that  she  had  not 
paid  for  them. 

"  The  merchants  soon  awaked  me  from  this  reverie  by  call- 
ing for  their  money.  I  pretended  to  know  the  lady,  and 
requested  credit  for  eight  days,  which  they  agreed  to.  The 
time  I  passed  very  uneasily,  but  on  the  morning  of  the  eighth 
day,  I  had  the  pleasure  to  see  the  lady  enter  the  bezestein, 
and  come  directly  to  my  shop  ;  she  paid  me  for  the  goods,  and 
entered  into  conversation  with  me  for  a  long  time  ;  after  which 
she  desired  me  to  procure  other  rich  goods,  of  which  she  took 
away  as  many  as  came  to  a  thousand  pieces  of  gold. 

A  month  elapsed  without  my  .seeing  the  lady  again:  and 
though  the  merchants,  pleased  with  my  former  punctuality, 
were  more  patient  than  I  could  have  hoped  for,  yet  at  last 
they  became  clamorous.  I  was  so  attached  to  her,  that  ruin 
Itself,  arising  from  her,  was  scarcely  unwelcome.  I  had  pre- 
pared myself  for  the  worst,  and  hourly  expected  it,  when  the 
lady  came  and  paid  me  the  money  I  stood  engaged  for. 

u  I  was  in  such  haste  to  pay  my  debts,  that  I  requested  ner 
fo  excuse  my  absence  for  a  few  moments ;  on  which  she  said 
So  the  eunuch, '  let  us  have  your  interposition  to  accommodate 
mr  matters.'  The  eunuch  laughed,  and  followed  me.  As  VH 
talked,  he  told  me  he  saw  by  my  eyes  how  much  I  loved  the 
tedy.  '  She/  continued  he,  '  is  no  less  pleased  with  you,  and 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  151  . 

commissioned  me  to  tell  you  that  she  is  ready  to  become  youi 
wife  if  you  desire  it/  I  received  this  news  with  transport 
On  our  return,  he  told  the  lady  I  was  satisfied ;  on  which  she 
arose,  and  telling  me,  with  a  smile,  I  should  hear  from  he? 
Boon,  withdrew. 

"  Some  days  after,  the  eunuch  came  alone,  and  acquainted 
me  that  the  lady  was  the  favorite  of  Zobeide,  the  caliph's  sul- 
tana, who  had  brought  her  up  from  her  infancy.  '  She  has  told 
Zcbeide,'  added  he,  'of  her  intended  marriage,  and  that  beau 
tiful  princess  will  provide  liberally  for  you  both ;  but  shf 
wishes  to  see  you  before  the  marriage  takes  place.  Have  you 
courage  to  venture  being  introduced  into  the  ladies'  apartments 
in  the  palace,  where  you  know  men  are  not  allowed  to  enter ; 
and  in  which,  if  we  fail,  your  life  is  at  an  end?'  *I  am 
ready,'  exclaimed  I, '  to  hazard  anything  .for  such  an  angel. 
Meet  me  then,'  replied  the  eunuch, '  this  evening  at  the  mosque 
on  the  banks  of  the  Tigris.' 

"  I  did  not  fail  to  attend  at  the  time  appointed.  When  J 
arrived  at  the  mosque,  I  found  some  men  bringing  in  several 
large  trunks.  In  a  short  time  they  all  withdrew  except  one. 
whom  I  soon  found  to  be  my  friendly  eunuch.  At  the  same 
instant  the  lady  entered  at  another  door.  I  would  have  thrown 
myself  at  her  feet,  but  she  prevented  me.  <  We  have  no  time 
for  compliments,'  said  she,  *  get  into  one  of  these  trunks,  and 
leave  the  management  of  this  affair  to  me.'  I  obeyed,  trem 
bling ;  and  presently  all  the  trunks  were  conveyed  to  a  boat 
and  rowed  down  the  Tigris  to  the  water-gate  of  the  palace. 

"  On  our  arrival,  the  trunks  were  carried  into  the  apartment 
af  tl»e  chief  of  the  eunuchs ;  who  having  retired  to  rest,  wa* 
obliged  to  rise,  as  nothing  could  be  carried  into  the  palace 
without  his  inspection.  The  crabbed  old  man,  displeased  at 
being  disturbed,  resolved  to  execute  his  office  with  severity 
1 1  will  have,'  said  he, '  all  these  trunks  opened,  before  I  suflfei 
them  to  pass.'  At  the  same  time  he  commanded  the  eunuci* 
lo  bring  them  before  him,  and  begin  with  the  one  in  whi 
I  lay. 


154  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

"The  favorite  lady,  however,  was  not  easily  daunted 
Everything  in  these  trunks,'  said  she,  '  belongs  to  our  inis« 
iress.  That  in  particular,  contains  bottles  of  the  sacred  Zera- 
&em*  water,  sent  from  Mecca  for  her  use.  Should  any 
accident  happen  to  them  from  your  impertinent  obstinacy, 
prepare  to  abide  by  the  consequences,  as  I  shall  not  fail  to  report 
your  conduct  to  Zobeide.'  The  eunuch,  intimidated  by  this 
spirited  behavior,  gave  up  the  point,  and  suffered  us  to  pass 
without  further  interruption. 

"The  trunks  were  now  carried  into  the  apartments  of 
Zobeide,  but  were  scarcely  deposited,  when  the  caliph  appeared. 
He  asked  what  they  contained,  and  was  told  rich  stuffs  for  the 
sultana,  on  which  he  desired  to  see  them.  In  vain  the  favorite 
lady  pleaded  her  mistress'  orders,  not  to  have  them  opened. 
I  will  undertake  to  reconcile  her  to  you/  said  the  caliph  ;  '  in 
ne  mean  time  I  will  be  obeyed.' 

"  Fortunately  the  other  trunks  did  contain  rich  apparel  and 
trinkets  ;  these  the  favorite  displayed,  and,  with  much  prolix- 
ity, pointed  out  their  several  excellences  to  the  caliph.  At 
last  they  were  all  opened,  except  the  trunk  in  which  I  was 
concealed.  The  favorite  ordered  three  eunuchs  to  take  them 
away ;  but  the  caliph  remembered  there  was  one  he  had  not 
examined,  and  directed  that  to  be  opened  also.  The  favorite 
appeared  ready  to  obey.  She  even  unlocked  it.  I  shudder 
now,  at  remembering  the  terrors  I  felt  at  that  moment.  But, 
as  if  recollecting  herself,  she  entreated  the  caliph  to  excuse 
her,  as  that  trunk  contained  some  articles  she  particularly 
wished  to  remain  as  they  were,  till  Zobeide  had  seen  them. 
The  caliph,  pleased  with  her  former  compliance,  and  tired  with 
the  survey,  admitted  her  apology ;  the  trunk  was  again  locked, 
and  I  was  conveyed  in  safety  to  another  apartment. 

*  There  is  a  fountain  at  Mecca,  which  the  Mohammedans  believe  was 
Ihe  spring  whicjj  God  showed  to  Hagar,  after  Abraham  was  obliged  to 
fTt  her  away ;  this  water  is  called  Zemzem  water,  and  is  drank  by  wa* 
%*  demotion.  It  is  sent  in  presents  to  princes  and  great  men . 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  15$ 

"The  favorite  lady  came  very  shortly  and  released  me 
You  aie  now/  said  she,  'in  perfect  safety.  I  shared  in  youi 
alarm,  and,  indeed,  in  your  danger.  Since  had  you  been  dis 
covered,  our  fate  would  have  been  the  same.  To-morrow  1 
will  introduce  you  to  the  princess.  Be  of  good  courage/  con- 
linued  she  ;  ' 1  repeat  that  you  are  perfectly  safe  here.  I  wih 
order  you  proper  refreshments,  but  cannot  see  you  any  more 
Jiis  evening.' 

"  In  the  morning  I  was  introduced  to  Zobeide,  who  after  a 
long  conversation  dismissed  me,  saying, '  I  arn  glad  that  my 
daughter  (as  she  tenderly  called  her  favorite)  has  made  so 
good  a  choice ;  I  consent  to  your  marriage,  which  shall  be 
solemnized  here ;  you  may  remain,  and  I  will  inform  the  caliph 
of  your  situation.'  Accordingly,  at  the  end  of  ten  days,  our 
nuptials  were  celebrated  with  great  state.  A  noble  feast  was 
prepared,  at  which,  among  other  delicacies,  was  a  ragout  with 
garlic,  of  which  I  ate  heartily ;  but  unfortunately  when  1 
arose  from  the  table,  I  only  wiped  my  hands  instead  of  wash- 
ing them. 

"  In  the  evening  the  apartments  were  lit  up  with  the  utmost 
magnificence.  My  bride  and  I  were  introduced  into  a  grea 
ball,  and  seated  upon  two  thrones.  We  had  a  grand  concer 
>f  music ;  after  which  the  women  who  attended  her,  changed 
ler  dress,  and  painted  her  face  with  different  sorts  of  colors, 
tccording  to  the  usual  custom  on  wedding  days ;  and  every 
dme  she  changed  her  habit,  they  presented  her  to  me.  In  the 
*venHg  we  were  conducted  to  the  nuptial  chamber,  where, 
jrhen  the  company  retired,  I  approached  to  embrace  my  wife 
>ut  instead  of  receiving  me  with  transport,  she  pushed  me 
rom  her,  and  cried  out  loudly.  The  ladies,  who  had  not  with* 
frawn  far,  came  running  into  the  chamber  to  know  the  cause, 
vhile  I  stood  like  one  thunderstruck.  '  Take  away,'  said  she, 
that  vile  fellow  out  of  my  sight.'  'Alas ! '  replied  I,  <  how 
•*we  I  incurred  your  displeasure  ? '  'Wretch/  said  she, '  have 
ou  not  neglected  to  wash  your  hands  after  eating  garlic  ?  but 
*  will  punish  your  disrespect  as  it  deserves.'  She  thet 


[56  AKABIAN   NIGHTS 

directed  Ler  slaves  to  strip  me,  and  I  received  from  them  A 
furious  bastinadoing,  after  which  she  ordered  my  hands  and 
feet  to  be  cut  off. 

"  I  was  terrified  at  this  severe  sentence,  and  cried  out,  <  Is  it 
not  enough  to  be  thus  disgraced  and  unmercifully  beaten,  but 
I  must  lose  my  hands  and  feet  also,  for  eating  a  ragout  of 
garlic,  and  forgetting  to  wash  my  hands  after  it  ?  Plague  on 
the  ragout !  plague  on  the  cook  that  dressed  it !  and  may 
he  be  equally  unhappy  that  served  it  up ! '  The  ladies  took 
pity  on  me,  and  interceded  for  me ;  but  they  could  only  pre- 
v*il  with  my  wife  to  be  satisfied  with  cutting  off  my  thumbs 
and  great  toes,  which  was  immediately  done. 

"  Through  vexation  and  loss  of  blood,  I  fainted.  When  I 
revived,  I  found  no  one  with  me  but  an  old  woman,  who 
attended  me  with  tolerable  care  till  I  recovered.  Notwith 
standing  this  harsh  treatment,  I  still  loved  my  wife  :  I  sent  the 
most  pressing  entreaties  to  be  admitted  once  more  into  her 
presence ;  after  many  refusals  she  yielded.  I  apologized  to 
her  for  my  indiscretion,  and  solemnly  swore  if  ever  I  ate  gar- 
lic again,  I  would  wash  my  hands  in  the  manner  you  have 
seen.  Upon  this,  the  lady  forgave  me,  and  consented  to 
receive  me  as  her  husband. 

"  We  continued  some  time  in  the  apartments  of  Zobeide, 
from  whose  bounty  we  received  a  present  of  fifty  thousand 
sequins ;  and  notwithstanding  our  rough  outset,  my  wife  and  1 
lived  together  in  the  utmost  harmony  for  about  a  year,  when 
she  fell  sick  and  died.  It  was  to  divert  my  melancholy  for 
her  loss,  that  induced  me  to  travel  hither." 

"  This  story,"  said  the  caliph,  "  is  truly  singular,  but  not 
equal  to  that  of  poor  Hunchback."  Upon  which  the  Jew 
doctor  asked  leave  to  relate  one ;  which  being  granted,  he 
proceeded  thus :  — 

The  Story  told  by  the  Jetcish  Physician. 
SOME  time  ago,  I  was  sent  for  to  attend  a  patient  in  the 
family  of  the  governor  of  Damascus.     I  was  introduced  *o  a 


ENTERTAINMENTS  ! 

young  man  of  good  mem,  but  much  dejected  ;  on  requesting 
to  feel  his  pulse,  he  presented  me  with  his  left  hand :  I  was 
abo'jt  to  resent  the  indignity ;  but  finding  he  was  very  ill,  J 
suppressed  my  displeasure,  and  prescribed  such  medicines  as  1 
thought  necessary. 

He  recovered  very  fast  under  my  care ;  yet  still,  as  often 
as  I  had  occasion  to  feel  his  pulse,  he  continued  to  present  his 
left  hand.  On  the  tenth  day  I  ordered  bathing,  and  was  about 
to  take  mybave;  but  my  patient  requested  I  would  attend 
him  to  the  bath.  I  complied  ;  and  when  he  began  to  undress, 
I  perceived  that  his  right  hand  had  been  lately  cut  off.  I  sup- 
pose my  looks  expressed  much  surprise ;  for,  after  bathing,  the 
young  man  led  me  to  a  saloon,  and  addressed  me  thus :  — 

"  I  am  so  much  indebted  to  your  abilities  for  my  speedy 
recovery,  that  I  cannot  refuse  you  the  satisfaction  of  knowing 
by  what  accident  I  became  thus  mutilated,  and  which,  in  truth, 
was  the  cause  of  the  disorder  from  which  you  have  relieved 
me. 

"  I  was  born  at  Moussoul ;  my  father  was  the  eldest  of  ten 
brothers,  all  of  them  merchants.  As  I  was  an  only  son,  and 
none  of  my  uncles  had  children,  I  was  much  caressed  by  them 
all ;  and  was  earlier  than  usual  introduced  into  the  company 
of  men.  One  day  my  father  and  his  brothers  were  talking 
about  Egypt,  and  Cairo  its  capital.  They  were  all  eloquent 
in  its  praise.  « In  that  happy  country,'  said  my  father,  '  the 
bounty  of  nature  is  most  abundant ;  the  wonders  of  human 
art  are  innumerable.  The  redundancy  of  the  Nile  renders 
ihe  land  at  once  beautiful  and  fertile.  The  inhabitants  are 
more  polished,  the  women,  in  particular,  are  more  agreeable 
and  beautiful  than  in  any  other  city.  If  you  view  the  pyra- 
mids, those  monuments  of  ancient  magnificence,  you  are 
astonished ;  these  buildings  are,  at  once,  proofs  of  the  riches 
of  the  Pharaohs  who  built  them,  and  of  the  abilities  of  the 
artists  of  that  early  period  ;  for  though  the  time  of  the  erec- 
tion it>  »o  far  back  that  the  learned  can  only  conjecture  when 
14 


15M  ARABIAN    NIGHTS" 

it  was,  yet  they  remain  perfect  to  this  day,  and  probably  wiD 
do  so  for  ages  to  ?ome.  Nor  are  the  instances  of  modern 
ingenuity  less  interesting.  In  short,  the  commerce,  the  riches, 
the  number  and  variety  of  strangers  to  be  found  there,  justify 
the  proverb,  that  he  that  hath  not  seen  Egypt,  hath  not  seen 
the  greatest  sight  in  the  world.' 

"  I  listened  to  this  eulogium  with  much  attention ;  and  from 
that  time,  nothing  employed  my  thoughts  but  a  journey  to 
Cairo.  Fortunately  some  of  my  uncles  were  seized  with  the 
same  desire.  I  immediately  became  importunate  with  my 
father  for  permission  to  join  the  caravan  ;  for  a  long  time  J 
sued  in  vain ;  but  my  uncles,  pressing  the  same  request,  my 
father  agreed  to  a  part  of  my  desire.  He  allowed  me  to  go 
as  far  as  Damascus,  on  condition  I  should  wait  there  for  my 
uncles'  return  from  Egypt ;  and  that  I  might  not  be  without 
employ,  he  gave  me  a  cargo  of  goods,  suited  to  that  market, 
to  dispose  of  for  my  own  profit. 

"  When  we  arrived  at  Damascus,  my  uncles  took  a  house 
for  me,  and  introduced  me  to  the  principal  merchants.  After 
their  departure,  I  applied  myself  to  business  with  great  dili- 
gence and  success.  The  prudence  of  my  conduct  endeared 
me  to  my  new  friends,  and  1  became  every  day  more  wealthy 
and  more  respected. 

"My  tranquillity  was  at  last  destroyed  by  a  singular  ac- 
cident. I  became  acquainted  with  a  very  beautiful  lady, 
who  used  to  come  occasionally  and  sup  with  me.  I  attached 
myself  to  her  with  all  the  eagerness  of  affection  so  natural 
to  youCl'  and  inexperience.  One  evening  she  began  to  dis- 
course with  me  on  the  power  of  beauty.  I  was  declaring  how 
immoveably  my  heart  was  fixed  on  her,  when  she  interrupted 
me,  and  said,  with  an  enchanting  smile, c  We  shall  soon  see 
this  boasted  constancy  tried.  A  particular  friend  of  mine  hath 
long  wished  to  see  you  ;  I  have  undertaken  to  introduce  her: 
but  I  forewarn  you  to  guard  your  heart.  Her  beauty  far 
exceeds  mine ;  and  he'r  wit  and  vivacity  make  her  almost 
irresistible,  yet  1  have  no  design  of  resigning  you  to  her 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 

beware,  therefore,  for  I  am  going  to  put  your  heart  to  a  strange 
trial.' 

u  A  few  evenings  after,  the  two  ladies  paid  me  a  visit.  I 
soon  found  my  friend  had  not  said  too  much  of  her  companion's 
charms.  If  I  had  been  pleased  with  the  one,  I  was  enraptured 
with  the  other.  I  received  them  with  all  the  politeness  in  my 
power,  and  invited  them  to  take  part  of  a  collation  I  had  pre- 
pared ;  but  I  did  tMis  with  so  much  emotion,  that  my  former 
acquaintance  laughingly  declared  I  was  already  unfaithful. 

"During  supper  I  sat  opposite  my  new  visitor,  who  displayed 
her  charms  as  if  on  purpose  to  captivate  me.  But  by  inspiring 
me,  she  took  fire  also_  herself ;  her  eyes  answered  mine,  in  a 
language  very  easily  understood  by  lovers ;  and  when  the  wine 
had  circulated  a  little,  we  each  incautiously  suffered  our  new 
passion  to  appear  unrestrained. 

"  My  first  acquaintance  continued  to  rally  us  with  great 
good  humor,  laughing  chiefly  at  me,  and  repeating  my  former 
protestations.  By  degrees  this  pleasantry  subsided.  She  be- 
came first  peevish,  and  then  sullen.  At  length,  having  sat 
silent  a  considerable  time,  she  arose  and  went  out  of  the  room 
A  few  moments  after,  the  other  lady  fell  into  convulsions,  and 
expired  in  my  arms  while  I  was  calling  for  assistance.  In  the 
midst  of  my  alarm  and  confusion,  I  inquired  for  the  lady  who 
had  withdrawn,  and  I  found  she  had  left  the  house.  I  then 
suspected,  what  was  certainly  the  case,  that,  instigated  by  rage 
and  jealousy,  she  had  conveyed  poison  into  her  friend's  wine, 
which  she  had  just  before  poured  out  for  her. 

"I  was  excessively  afflicted  ?t  this  fatal  accident,  and  a  good 
deal  alarmed  for  the  consequences  that  might  probably  follow 
from  it.  To  avoid  the  latter,  I  ordered  my  servants  (who 
fortunately  were  the  same  I  had  brought  from  Moussoul)  to  take 
up  the  pavement  in  the  yard,  and  inter  the  body.  In  the 
morning  I  was  ready  for  a  journey.  I  sent  for  my  landlord, 
and  told  him  particular  business  obliged  me  to  follow  my  uncles 
to  Cairo.  I  paid  him  a  years'  rent  in  advance,  and  affixed  my 
seal  to  the  door  of  the  house.  I  then  set  out  for  Cairo,  attended 
bv  nil  mv  douier.fcics 


160  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

a  I  continued  three  years  in  that  city,  taking  care  reguiarly 
to  send  my  rent  to  my  landlord.  At  last  I  determined  to  return 
home,  and  arriving  in  my  way  at  Damascus,  took  possession 
of  my  former  habitation. 

44  In  cleaning  out  the  room  where  I  used  to  eat,  one  of  my 
servants  found  a  beautiful  pearl  necklace,  which  I  immediately 
knew  was  worn  by  the  lady  who  had  so  unfortunately  perished 
in  my  arms.  I  shed  many  tears  over  it ;  ahd  resolved  to  remain 
a  few  days  at  Damascus,  to  indulge  the  melancholy  sensations 
which  this  accident  revived.  After  some  time  my  cash  w&c 
nearly  exhausted ;  and  as  I  found  the  sight  of  the  necklace 
only  contributed  to  make  me  wretched,  I  determined  to  part 
with  it,  instead  of  carrying  any  of  my  own  goods  to  market. 

"  I  went  accordingly  to  the  bezestein,  and  employed  a  crier 
lo  show  it  to  the  jewellers.  After  a  time  he  returned  and  told 
me  that  the  pearls  had  been  examined,  and  proved  to  be  false, 
and  that  the  utmost  he  could  get  for  it  was  fifty  sherifs. 

"  As  I  was  entirely  ignorant  of  its  value,  I  ordered  the  crier 
to  sell  it  and  bring  me  the  money.  I  waited  some  time  for  his 
return,  and  when  he  came,  there  were  several  people  with  him 
one  of  whom  was  the  justiciary  judge,  who  asked  me  if  that 
necklace  was  mine,  and  if  I  had  offered  to  sell  it  for  fifty 
eherifs?  On  my  admitting  this,  another  person,  who  was  a 
jeweller,  said  to  the  judge,  '  You  see,  my  lord,  my  charge  is 
true ;  the  necklace  is  mine.  The  pearls  alone  are  worth 
two  thousand  sherifs,  and  this  young  fellow  offering  to  take 
fifty  for  it,  is  a  full  proof  that  he  stole  it.'  The  judge  having 
satisfied  himself  as  to  the  real  value  of  the  pearls,  ordered  me 
to  be  bastinadoed  till  I  confessed  how  I  came  by  it.  This  was 
instantly  done  with  so  much  severity,  that  overcome  with  the 
torture,  I  confessed  the  charge ;  on  which  the  judge  delivered 
the  necklace  to  the  jeweller,  and  ordered  my  right  hand  to  be 
sut  off. 

u  This  sentence  was  executed  on  the  spot,  after  which  I  was 
*et  at  liberty.  I  returned  home,  overcome  with  shame  and 
lorrow.  My  landlord,  who  had  heard  of  my  misfortune,  camt 


ENTEKTAINMENTS.  1 61 

And  condoled  with  me ;  but  concluded  his  discourse  by  telling 
me,  that  as  I  had  brought  myself  to  so  much  infamy,  I  musl 
immediately  quit  his  house ;  nor  was  it  without  great  difficulty 
£  could  prevail  with  him  to  let  me  stay  three  days. 

"I  felt  now  still  more  severely  the  disgrace  which  had 
befallen  me  ;  and  my  grief  was  aggravated  by  considering  the 
appearance  I  should  make  before  my  father  and  my  uncles 
While  I  was  revolving  these  tormenting  ideas,  my  house  was 
surrounded  by  the  officers  of  justice,  attended  by  a  great  crowd 
of  people,  at  the  head  of  which  was  the  jeweller  who  had  so 
falsely  accused  me.  They  forced  open  the  doors,  seized  and 
bound  me,  reviling  and  execrating  me  all  the  time  in  the 
harshest  terms.  For  some  time  I  demanded  in  vain  the  cause 
of  this  violence ;  at  length  I  was  told  that  the  necklace  I  had 
stolen  was  the  property  of  the  governor,  whose  daughter  had 
been  missing  above  three  years,  and  had  that  necklace  on  when 
she  was  last  seen. 

"  On  hearing  this,  I  gave  myself  up  for  lost.  Despair  sup- 
plied the  place  of  courage.  My  life  was  become  hateful  to 
me.  I  determined,  therefore,  to  relate  the  whole  truth  to  the 
governor,  and  to  meet  with  resolution  a  fate  I  hardly  wished 
to  escape.  When  I  was  brought  before  him  he  ordered  me  to 
be  unbound,  and  I  observed  he  looked  upon  me  with  an  eye  of 
compassion.  '  Is  this  the  man/  said  he  to  the  jeweller,  *  whom 
you  charged  with  having  stolen  this  necklace?'  My  adversary 
durst  not  deny  it.  '  I  know/  replied  the  governor,  <  he  is  falsely 
accused.'  Encouraged  by  this  declaration,  I  avowed  my  inno- 
cence, protesting  that  the  confession  I  had  made  was  extorted 
from  me  by  torture.  '  I  am  ready/  continued  I, « to  relate  how 
it  came  into  my  hands ;  but  as  to  that  man,  whose  villany  baa 
brought  me  into  such  disgrace,  I  declare  I  never  saw  him  till 
this  fatal  day ;  nor  have  I  the  least  reason  to  believe  the  neck- 
lace was  ever  seen  by  him  before.'  * I  know  enough  of  this 
matter  myself/  replied  the  governor,  <  to  be  certain  of  your 
innocence.  Take  away/  said  he,  <  this  base  jeweller ;  let  bin 
14* 


lf>2  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

undergo  the  same  j  unishment  he  hath  villanourfly  brought  upot 
this  poor  young  man,  to  whose  use  I  confiscate  his  effects.' 

f  The  assembly  being  dismissed,  the  governor  withdrew 
with  me  into  a  private  room,  where  he  desired  me  to  tell  hire 
without  fear,  how  I  came  into  possession  of  tbf»,  necklace.  1 
related  to  him  every  circumstance,  at  which  he  was  greatly 
affected.  4  Good  God ! '  said  he,  '  thy  judgments  are  incom- 
prehensible ;  I  receive  with  entire  submission  the  stroke  thou 
hast  been  pleased  to  inflict  on  me.  Know,  my  child/  said  he 
to  me, ( I  am  the  father  of  the  two  young  ladies  you  have  beeii 
ipeaking  of. 

" 4  The  first  lady  who  had  the  impudence  to  come  to  yoar 
house,  was  my  eldest  daughter.  I  had  given  her  in  marriage 
to  my  brother's  son,  who  was  settled  in  Cairo.  At  his  death 
she  returned  home,  corrupted  with  all  manner  of  wickedness. 
The  lady  who  died  so  deplorably  in  your  arms,  was  a  very 
prudent  young  woman  till  her  elder  sister  returned  from  Egypt, 
who  made  her  insensibly  as  wicked  as  herself.  On  the  ab- 
sence of  my  younger  daughter,  I  made  all  possible  inquiry  after 
her,  to  no  purpose ;  and  I  recollect  now,  that  from  that  time, 
my  eldest  daughter  devoted  herself  to  sorrow ;  repenting  no 
doubt  of  her  jealous  fury,  she  denied  herself  all  manner  of  food, 
and  in  that  manner  put  an  end  to  her  wretched  life. 

" '  Such,'  continued  the  governor,  '  is  the  state  of  man !  such 
the  calamities  from  which  no  rank  is  secured !  But  to  mako 
you  reparation  for  what  you  have  .suffered  on  their  account,  1 
will  give  you  in  marriage  the  only  child  I  have  left,  who  is 
younger  and  more  beautiful  than  either  of  her  sisters.  You 
shall  have  no  other  house  but  mine ;  and  when  I  die  you  shall 
be  my  heir.'  I  accepted  the  governor's  proposal  with  joy ;  the 
contract  was  drawn,  and  our  nuptials  would  have  been  cele- 
brated directly,  but  the  fever  from  which  your  skill  has  deliv- 
ered me  followed  the  loss  of  my  hand  and  the  agitations  I  had 
undergone.  As  I  am  no^  recovered,  my  marriage  will  thii 
ia)  be  completed." 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  16$ 

The   sultan   being  pleased  with  this   story,   directt*i  tin 
toiler  to  repeat  any  remarkable  occurrence  which  had  befallen 


The  Story  told  %  the  Tailor. 

A  CITIZEN  of  this  city  invited  me  two  days  ago  to  an  enter- 
tainment. The  company  were  nearly  assembled,  when  the 
master  of  the  house  introduced  a  stranger,  polite  and  well 
dressed,  but  lame.  The  young  man  paid  his  compliments  very 
respectfully  to  every  one,  till  he  came  to  a  barber,  when  he 
started  back,  and  hastened  towards  the  door.  The  master  of 
the  house,  surprised  at  his  emotion,  stopped  him,  and  desired 
he  would  explain  the  cause.  "  For  God's  sake,  sir,"  replied  the 
stranger,  "  let  me  go ;  I  cannot  without  horror  look  upon  that 
abominable  barber.  His  face  resembles  an  Ethiopian,  and  his 
soul  is  ten  times  more  black  and  horrible  than  his  face." 

We  were  all  amazed  to  hear  these  expressions,  and  began  to 
look  very  unfavorably  on  the  barber,  when  our  host  said  to  the 
young  man,  "  I  brought  you  to  my  house  to  give  you  pleasure, 
and  cannot  wish  to  detain  you  against  your  inclinations  ;  but  I 
would  be  glad  to  know  why  you  expressed  yourself  against  one 
of  my  guests  with  so  much  bitterness.  You  owe,"  continued 
he,  "  this  explanation  to  me  and  to  my  other  friends,  that  we 
may  expel  him  from  our  society,  if  he  is  unworthy  of  it." 

"  Gentlemen,"  replied  the  stranger,  "  this  cursed  barber  is 
the  cause  of  my  being  lame.  Besides,  to  his  impertinence  1 
owe  the  severest  disappointment  and  disgrace.  On  this  account 
I  have  made  a  vow,  never  to  remain  in  the  city  where  he 
dwells.  To  avoid  him  I  left  Bagdad  and  travelled  hither,  into 
the  heart  of  great  Tartary  ;  and  I  will  now  leave  your  city,  and 
go>  if  I  can,  where  he  shall  never  come."  Every  one  became 
interested  to  hear  the  cause  of  so  great  an  aversion.  The  young 
man  suffered  himself  to  be  prevailed  on  to  relate  the  reason ; 
and  sitting  down  on  the  sofa,  with  his  back  to  the  barber,  gave 
»3  the  following  account :  — 

«  Very  early  in  my  life  I  contracted  an  aversion  to  women 


164  ARABIAy   NIGHTS' 


insomuch  that  I  carefully  avoided  all  conversation  with  them 
but  I  chanced  one  day  to  cast  my  eye  up  to  a  window,  where 
I  saw  a  young  lady  of  such  exquisite  beauty,  as  at  once  dissi- 
pated my  prejudices,  and  inspired  me  with  love.  On  inquiring 
who  it  was  I  was  thus  enslaved  by,  I  had  the  mortification  to 
hear  that  she  was  the  only  child  of  the  first  cadi,  a  man  of  great 
wealth,  but  of  still  greater  pride,  and  severity  of  manners.  As 
all  hope  of  obtaining  an  interview  with  my  charmer  was  im- 
probable, I  tried  to  subdue  my  passion.  But  instead  of  sue 
ceedingr  I  found  my  health  so  affected  by  the  tumult  of  my 
mind,  that  I  was  obliged  to  confine  myself  to  my  bed.  I  grew 
worse  daily,  but  carefully  kept  secret  the  cause  of  my  disorder. 
At  last  a  notable  old  lady  coming  to  see  me,  observed  I  sighed 
often.  She  began  to  talk  with  me  about  love,  and  being  a 
woman  of  address,  she  soon  found  out  the  source  of  my  disorder. 

"  To  her  I  unbosomed  myself  ;  and  the  old  lady,  delighting 
in  such  commissions,  undertook  to  procure  me  an  interview 
with  my  mistress.  This  was  by  no  means  an  easy  undertaking, 
for  the  cadi  had  brought  up  his  daughter  with  so  much  strict- 
ness, that  it  was  a  long  time  before  she  would  hear  of  such  a 
measure.  My  trusty  advocate  had  art  and  perseverance  ;  and 
at  last  obtained,  hardly,  the  young  lady's  consent  to  receive  me 
on  the  following  Friday,  at  the  time  of  noon  prayers,  when  the 
cadi  went  to  the  mosque.  These  welcome  tidings  restored  my 
health  and  spirits,  so  that  before  the  appointed  time,  I  was 
perfectly  recovered. 

"When  the  eagerly  expected  morning  arrived,  I  dressed 
myself  to  the  best  advantage,  and  sent  for  a  barber  to  shave 
me.  My  slave  brought  with  him  this  wretch.  When  he  came 
in,  *  Sir/  said  he,  <  you  look  as  if  you  was  not  well  ;  pray  let 
me  know  what  service  I  can  do  for  you.  I  have  brought  my 
lancets  as  well  as  my  razor,  and  am  prepared  to  bleed  as  well 
as  to  shave  you.'  I  told  him  I  only  wanted  to  be  shaved,  and 
that  immediately,  as  I  had  an  appointment  to  attend  at  noon. 

"  He  was  a  long  time  opening  his  case,  and  preparing  his 
razors  ;  when  instead  of  proceeding  to  shave  me,  he  took  oul 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  168 

im  astrolabe,  and  went  very  gravely  out  of  the  room  tj  the 
middle  of  the  yard,  to  take  the  height  of  the  sun.  Returning 
with  the  same  gravity,  he  said,  '  Sir,  you  will  be  pleased  t<s 
know  that  this  day  is  Friday,  the  18th  of  the  month  Safar,  and 
that  the  conjunction  of  Mars  and  Mercury  signifies  you  cannot 
choose  a  better  time  than  this  very  day  and  this  very  hour  for 
being  shaved.  But  this  conjunction  is  also  ominous  to  you 
You  will  this  day  be  in  great  danger,  not  indeed  of  losing  youi 
life,  but  of  an  inconvenience  which  will  attend  you  as  long  as 
you  live.' 

"  I  was  quite  enraged  at  his  prating  and  impertinence.  I  did 
not  send  for  you,  said  I,  to  instruct  me  in  astrology,  but  tc 
shave  me ;  which  I  insist  on  your  doing  directly,  or  go  about 
your  business.  <  Sir,'  replied  he  with  a  dulness  that  put  me 
out  of  all  patience,  '  why  do  you  put  yourself  in  a  passion  ?  do 
you  think  I  am  a  common  shaver  ?  You  sent  for  a  barber 
only ;  but  besides  having  in  me  the  best  barber  in  Bagdad, 
you  have  also  an  experienced  physician,  a  very  profound 
chemist,  an  infallible  astrologer,  a  finished  grammarian,  a  com- 
plete orator,  a  subtile  logician,  an  admirable  mathematician  and 
historian ;  besides,  I  know  all  parts  of  philosophy.  I  am  a 
poet,  an  architect,  and  excel  in  all  the  sciences.  Your  late 
father,  my  very  good  friend,  whose  memory  I  revere,  held  me 
in  the  highest  esteem.  I  am  — '  Prithee,  peace,  thou  end- 
less babbler,  exclaimed  I,  interrupting  him,  and  do  the  busi- 
ness I  sent  for  you  to  do. 

" '  You  do  me  wrong/  replied  he,  <  to  call  me  a  babbler  ;  ou 
the  contrary,  all  the  world  give  me  the  honorable  title  of  silent.' 
Finding  he  was  again  beginning  to  harangue,  I  ordered  my 
slave  to  pay  him,  and  turn  him  out  of  doors ;  but  even  this  did 
not  relieve  me.  <  I  came  here/  said  he,  <  to  shave  you ;  and  by 
the  faith  of  a  Mussulman,  I  will  not  leave  you  until  I  have 
performed  that  operation/ 

In  hope  of  getting  rid  of  him,  I  submitted  to  be  shaved  by 
him,  only  desiring  him  to  be  speedy.  He  had  scarcely  begun 
to  use  his  razir,  when  he  stopped,  saying,  *  I  wondjr,  sir,  you 


l66  ARABIAN    NIQHTS' 

will  not  &void  these  transports  of  rage,  which  cc  me  only  from 
the  devil.  Besides,  you  ought  to  have  more  respect  for  a  man 
of  my  age,  knowledge,  and  many  virtues.  You  have  an  en 
gagement  at  noon ;  why,  it  now  wants  at  least  three  hours  of 
that  time.'  Again  he  laid  down  his  razor,  and  took  up  his 
astrolabe,  leaving  me  half  shaved,  to  go  and  see  what  time  of 
day  it  was.  '  I  told  you,'  said  he,  on  his  return,  *  you  have 
time  enough.'  I  could  hold  no  longer.  You  cursed  barber, 
j  ou  barber  of  mischief,  said  I,  I  know  not  what  hinders  me 
from  strangling  you  !  <  Patience,  sir,'  said  he,  <  I  am  just  about 
10  complete  your  business.' 

"  I  should  weary  you  in  relating  how  he  further  exercised 
my  patience.  I  heard  the  first  and  last  call  to  noon  prayers :  I 
was  not  even  able  to  rid  myself  of  this  abominable  fellow,  till 
long  after  they  had  begun.  I  hastened  then  to  my  appointment, 
but  had  the  mortification  to  perceive  he  followed  me.  I  passed 
hastily  through  many  streets,  in  hope  of  giving  him  the  slip; 
which  when  I  thought  I  had  completed,  I  hastened  to  the  cadi's 
house ;  but  as  I  ascended  the  stairs,  to  the  young  lady's  apart- 
ment, I  saw  him  take  his  station  opposite  the  door  of  the 
mansion. 

"  My  mistress  received  me  kindly,  and  I  should  have  been 
perfectly  happy,  had  I  not  dreaded  this  impertinent  fellow 
would  expose  me.  Nor  was  this  fear  groundless ;  when  the 
cadi  returned,  he  did  not  come  near  his  daughter's  apartments, 
but  it  chanced  that  he  chastised  a  slave  who  had  misbehaved, 
The  barber  hearing  his  outcries,  supposed  they  came  from  me  ; 
and  officiously  screaming  out,  he  rent  his  clothes,  threw  dust 
on  his  head,  and  called  out  to  the  neighbors  for  assistance.  A 
crowd  soon  gathered  round  the  house,  to  whom  the  barber 
cried  out,  *  Help,  Mussulmen,  for  the  love  of  God !  they  are 
assassinating  my  master,  my  dear  patron.  I  saw  him  go  in 
here,  and  they  have  been  just  now  bastinadoing  him,  for  1 
heard  his  outcries.' 

"  The  crowd  became  enraged  at  this  story,  nor  could  even 
the  venerable  presence  of  the  cadi  inspire  them  with  respect, 


ENTERTAINMENTS  167 

he  came  forth  to  pacify  ther  .  <Ah!  ycu  cursed 
you  dog  of  a  cadi ! '  exclaimed  J&4  barbe^  '  how  durst 
you  thus  assault  a  Mussulman  ?  I  kriow  your  daughter  i«  in 
love  with  my  patron,  and  hath  invited  him  here,  durir  g  the 
time  of  noon  prayers,  and  I  heard  him  cry  out  under  the  bar- 
barous discipline  you  inflicted  on  him.'  The  cadi  denied  all 
this,  but  finding  the  people  continued  enraged,  he  offered  to 
permit  the  barber,  and  two  or  three  others,  to  enter  his  house 
and  search  for  me. 

"At  the  beginning  of  the  disturbance,  I  had  hid  myself,  at 
the  earnest  request  of  the  young  lady,  hi  a  large  empty  trunk. 
This  trunk  escaped  the  attention  of  the  other  people ;  but  the  " 
officious  barber  opened  it,  and  no  sooner  saw  me,  than  he  gave 
a  great  shout,  and  placing  it  on  his  head,  ran  into  the  street. 
As  he  carried  me,  one  part  of  the  trunk  which  was  very  old, 
fell  off,  and  exposed  me  to  the  shouts  of  the  mob,  now  very 
much  disposed  to  turn  the  matter  into  a  jest.  I  could  not  beai 
this,  but  leaped  out  into  the  street  with  so  much  haste,  that  I 
hurt  my  leg,  and  have  been  lame  ever  since. 

"  1  was  not  sensible  at  first  how  bad  I  was  hurt,  and  there- 
fore having  thrown  handfuls  of  money  among  the  people,  I 
endeavored  to  escape ;  but  the  mischievous  barber  still  con- 
tinued to  persecute  me.  4  Stay,  sir,'  cried  he,  <  why  do  you 
run  so  fast  ?  Alas !  if  you  had  taken  my  advice,  you  would 
not  have  been  in  that  perilous  situation,  from  which  it  was  my 
good  fortune  to  deliver  you.  Whither  do  you  run  then,  sir  ? 
stay  for  me.' 

"  Not  content  with  this,  he  went  all  over  the  town  relating 
this  story,  with  a  variety  of  ridiculous  circumstances,  of  hi* 
own  invention.  In  short,  finding  when  I  was  cured  that  1 
had  no  more  hope  of  seeing  the  lady,  and  that  people  were  eve- 
rywhere disposed  to  laugh  at  me,  through  the  malice  or  folly  of 
this  detestable  barber,  I  determined  to  quit  forever  my  native 
city ;  and  never  to  remain  in  any  other,  if  that  fellow  should 
tome  to  it.  Having  now,  gentlemen,  gratified  your  curiosity,  J 
must  desire  thai  you  will  permit  me  to  fulfil  that  resolution 


168  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

Saying  this,  he  arose,  and  without  looking  at  the  barber,  back 
us  farewell 

We  expressed  our  surprise  at  this  story,  and  some  of  us 
began  to  blame  the  barber,  who  raising  up  his  head  for  the 
first  time,  acknowledged  the  story  to  be  generally  true. 
"  But."  said  he,  "  did  not  he  throw  himself  into  the  dan* 
ger  J  warned  him  of,  and  from  which  I  delivered  him  ?  what 
reason  then  has  he  to  complain  of  me  ?  But  thus  it  is,  to  serve 
unthankful  people !  as  to  his  story  of  my  being  a  prattling 
follow,  it  is  an  absolute  scandal.  Of  seven  brothers  I  am  the 
least  talker,  though  the  most  witty.  To  convince  you,  gentle- 
men, I  need  only  to  relate  to  you  their  stories,  and  my  own 
Let  me  request  your  attention. 


The  Story  of  the  Barber. 

IN  the  reign  of  the  late  caliph,  the  roads  near  Bagdad  were 
much  infested  by  ten  highwaymen.  Their  depredations,  every 
day  more  insolent,  at  length  reached  the  ear  of  the  caliph, 
who  commanded  the  judge  of  the  police  to  apprehend  them 
within  a  limited  time,  013  pain  of  death.  Alarmed  at  this  rig- 
orous order,  the  judge  exerted  himself  so  effectually,  that  they 
were  all  taken  by  the  next  day,  which  was  the  day  of  Bairam. 
As  it  was  holiday  time,  I  was  walking  on  the  banks  of  the 
Tigris,  and  seeing  a  number  of  well-dressed  men  enter  a  boat, 
J  concluded  they  were  going  to  spend  the  festival  in  jollity  : 
BO  without  ceremony,  I  entered  the  boat  along  with  them 
Every  one  preserved  a  profound  silence,  and  I  presently  ob^ 
served  part  of  the  company  were  officers  of  the  police.  1 
had  very  little  time  to  reflect  on  my  situation,  which  I  began 
to  do  with  much  uneasiness,  when  we  landed  at  the  royal 
palace,  where  we  were  received  by  a  party  of  guards,  who 
bound  us  all  with  cords,  that  had  not  the  ensigns  of  office  in 
their  hands.  Expostulation  I  saw  was  in  vain;  I  suffered 
l,  therefore,  to  be  led  away  with  the  highwaymen,  with 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  185 

jut  remonstrance.  When  we  were  brought  before  the  caliph 
he  ordered  our  heads  to  be  immediately  struck  off.  All  my 
?ompanions  were  clamorous  for  mercy :  I  alone  was  silent. 
The  executioner  soon  despatched  the  highwaymen,  and  was  pro- 
seeding  to  put  me  to  death,  when  the  caliph  seeing  something 
01  my  appearance  which  took  his  attention,  condescended  to 
examine  me  himself.  I  related  to  him  the  accident  which 
brought  me  into  my  perilous  situation,  with  so  much  simplicity, 
that  the  caliph  was  convinced  of  my  innocence,  and  set  me  at 
large ;  highly  commending  my  fortitude  and  silence  in  a  mo- 
ment of  so  much  danger.  After  this,  it  is  hardly  necessary 
to  relate  to  you  the  stories  of  my  six  brothers,  whose  charac- 
ters brighten  mine.  Yet  for  your  amusement,  I  am  willing  to 
repeat  them. 


The  Story  of  the  Barber's  Eldest  Brother. 

MY  eldest  brother,  whose  name  was  Bacbouc,  had  the  mis- 
fortune to  be  humpbacked.  He  was  a  tailor,  and  having  but 
little  business,  could  scarcely  maintain  himself.  Opposite  his 
shop  lived  a  wealthy  miller,  who  had  a  very  handsome  wife, 
with  whom  my  silly  brother  fell  in  love.  The  miller's  wife 
soon  perceived  the  conquest  she  had  made,  and  determined  to 
turn  his  passion  to  her  amusement ;  she  often  smiled  upon  him 
from  her  window,  and  whenever  she  appeared  there,  he  did 
not  fail  to  express  his  passion,  by  every  grimace  he  cculd 
invent. 

The  miller's  wife  was  all  this  time  studying  to  punish  hias 
presumption.  She  began  by  sending  him  stuffs  to  be  made  up 
into  different  garments.  All  these,  the  slave  used  to  tell  him, 
her  mistress  praised  highly ;  but  she  never  sent  any  money 
for  the  making  or  trimmings.  He  was  too  gallant  to  ask  for 
any,  and  often  went  with  a  hungry  belly  in  the  evening,  af- 
ter having  labored  hard  all  day  for  his  unmerciful  mistress  5 
but  as  the  slave  did  not  forget  to  hint  every  now  and  then 
what  a  progress  he  was  making  in  I  er  affection,  the  poor  tailo* 
15 


1 70  ARABIAN 

was  quite  happy  in  his  sufferings.  After  some  time,  the  ladj 
fearing  others  should  take  notice  of  Bacbouc's  behavior,  and 
Dy  that  means  her  character  might  be  aspersed,  contrived  to 
get  rid  of  him  in  the  following  manner. 

She  related  to  her  husband  the  story  of  my  brother's  love^ 
and  her  plan  to  punish  it.  The  miller,  highly  delighted,  read- 
ily agreed  to  give  his  assistance.  The  same  evening  he  called 
upon  my  brother,  and  invited  him  to  sup  with  him.  Bacbouo 
had  no  doubt  but  his  mistress  had  contrived  this  invitation :  he 
was  overjoyed,  and  put  on  his  best  apparel,  to  look  more  amia 
hie  in  her  eyes.  The  repast  was  a  homely  one,  but  the  tailor 
was  too  much  in  love  to  find  fault  with  it.  When  it  grew  late, 
the  miller  said,  "  Brother,  you  had  better  not  go  home  to-night : 
I  will  .show  you  a  bed  in  the  mill."  Which  offer  Bacbouc 
thankfully  accepted. 

Early  in  the  morning,  the  miller  went  to  my  brother  and 
<§aid,  "  Neighbor,  my  mule  is  ill,  and  I  have  a  great  deal  of 
corn  to  grind  to-day,  you  will  do  me  much  kindness  if  you 
will  turn  my  mill  in  her  stead."  Bacbouc,  willing  to  oblige, 
consented.  The  miller  fastened  the  tackle  to  him  in  such  a 
manner  that  he  could  not  disengage  himself,  and  then  givin^ 
him  two  or  three  smart  cuts  with  a  horsewhip,  said,  "  Go, 
neighbor  ! "  "  Hold T "  replied  my  brother,  "  why  do  you  whip 
me  ?  "  "  'Tis  to  make  you  brisk,"  said  the  miller,  giving  him 
at  the  same  time  a  hearty  cut ;  "  my  mule  is  never  brisk  with- 
out I  whip  her.  Courage,  neighbor,"  continued  he,  using  the 
whip  all  the  time,  "  you  perform  admirably :  I  shall  always 
think  myself  bound  to  you  for  your  friendly  assistance."  In  short, 
the  miller  drove  poor  Bacbouc  round,  continuing  to  whip  him, 
till  his  strength  was  nearly  exhausted.  His  persecutor  then 
withdrew,  and  the  slave  who  had  fed  his  hopes  appeared  and 
released  him.  She  would  fain  have  persuaded  him  that  hei 
Distress  knew  nothing  of  the  treatment  he  had  received,  arid 
would  be  exceedingly  sorry  for  it.  Bacbouc  hoard  her  in  si- 
ler^ce,  and  crept  home  to  his  house,  smarting,  fatigued,  ashamed 
ind  entirely  cured  of  his  illicit  yassion  for  his  neighbors  wife 


ENTERTAINMENTS  171 


Story  of  the  Barber's  Second  Brother. 

MY  oecond  brother  was  called  Bacbarah.  One  day  an  old 
Rroman  came  up  to  him,  and  asked  him  in  a  whisper,  if  he 
loved  a  good  treat,  and  could  be  obliging  to  a  fine  woman. 
On  his  answering  yes,  she  said,  "  follow  me  then,  and  I  will 
conduct  you  to  both." 

When  she  had  led  him  to  the  saloon  of  a  handsome  palace, 
she  said,  "  The  lady  I  shall  introduce  you  to  is  of  admirable 
beauty,  but  of  very  fanciful  humor ;  if  you  agree  to  submit  to 
her  caprice,  I  will  engage  she  will  receive  you  favorably." 
My  brother  seeing  everything  about  him  very  elegant,  was 
delighted  with  his  good  fortune,  and  readily  agreed  to  submit 
to  whatever  should  be  required  of  him. 

The  old  woman  made  a  signal,  when  two  slaves  entered, 
and  conducted  Bacbarah  to  a  bath.  After  bathing,  they  pre- 
sented him  with  rich  robes,  instead  of  his  own  mean  apparel ; 
and  when  he  was  dressed,  they  led  him  to  a  hall,  where  they 
found  a  lovely  young  lady,  surrounded  by  a  group  of  merry 
slaves,  who  all  endeavored  to  divert  her.  The  lady  received 
him  with  great  respect,  obliged  him  to  sit  down  by  her,  and 
ordered  a  grand  entertainment  to  be  immediately  served.  At 
dinner  she  helped  him  to  the  nicest  viands  and  choicest  wines  j 
when  the  tables  were  removed,  perfume  and  rose-water  were 
thrown  over  him  by  her  own  hands. 

A  concert  followed  the  repast,  during  which  the  lady  ogled 
the  enraptured  Bacbarah,  till  his  hopes  were  wound  up  to  the 
highest  pitch.  The  lady  observing  this,  called  for  wine,  and 
pretending  to  drink  his  health,  she  put  the  glass  to  her  lips,  and 
then  flung  the  wine  in  his  face. 

My  brother  was  almost  blinded,  and  the  slaves  gathered 
round  him  while  in  this  condition,  some  pinching  him,  others 
clliping  him  by  the  nose,  and  offering  him  a  thousand  affronts, 
He  bore  all  this  with  great  good  humor,  laughing  wHh  the 
Company,  as  though  highly  delighted  with  the  jest.  On  whicL 


172  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

the  lady  said. {<  Brother,  you  are  a  man  quite  to  my  mind  ;  th€ 
complaisance  with  which  you  submit  to  my  little  fancies,  shall 
not  be  forgotten."  Take  the  gentleman  out,  said  she,  and 
when  you  have  obeyed  orders,  bring  him  here  again. 

The  old  woman  led  my  brother  to  an  adjoining  apartment, 
where  he  found  several  stout  slaves,  who  in  spite  of  his  oppo- 
sition and  outcries,  cut  off  his  whiskers  and  beard,  painted  his 
eye-brows,  and  dressed  him  in  the  habit  of  a  woman.  Bac- 
barah  was  much  enraged ;  but  his  conductress  promising  her 
lady  would  reward  his  condescension,  he  suffered  her  to  lead 
him  back  to  her  mistress. 

On  his  entrance,  the  young  lady  laughed  till  she  fell  back 
on  her  sofa.  Her  slaves  also  joined  in  the  ridicule,  dancing 
round  him,  by  turns  pushing  him  about  and  pinching  him,  till 
he  was  spent  with  fatigue  and  vexation.  The  old  woman  at 
last  rescued  him,  and  led  him  out  again.  She  then  supplied 
him  with  wine,  praised  his  complaisance,  and  told  him  he  had 
but  one  more  instance  to  give  of  it :  "  My  mistress,"  continued 
she,  "  requires  that  you  strip  off  your  clothes,  and  pursue  her 
from  chamber  to  chamber,  till  you  catch  her ;  that  done,  you 
will  be  master  of  your  own  wishes." 

My  silly  brother  having  submitted  to  so  many  mortifications, 
was  unwilling  to  lose  the  promised  reward,  by  refusing  one 
more  compliance.  He  stripped,  therefore,  as  required ;  and  all 
the  doors  of  the  apartments  being  thrown  open,  he  pursued 
the  lady  three  times  round  them.  At  last  she  took  shelter*  in 
a  dark  passage :  Bacbarah  followed  her  with  alacrity,  but  the 
darkne^  obliged  him  to  proceed  slowly.  She  regained  the 
apartments  by- a  private  passage  ;  while  my  brother  crept  on 
till  he  perceived  a  light,  which  he  had  no  sooner  reached,  thaa 
a  door  shut  violently  behind  him,  and  he  found  himself  in  one 
01  the  obscure  streets  of  the  city. 

A  crowd  soon  gathered  around  him,  and  his  strange  appear- 
ance, almost  naked,  his  eyebrows  painted,  and  without  beard 
or  mustachios,  rendered  him  a  fair  object  of  ridicule.  They 
touted  after  him,  and  pelted  him.  It  would  have  been  weU 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  178 

For  poor  Bacbarah,  if  his  misfortunes  had  ended  here  ;  but  ooe 
of  the  magistrates  passing  by,  and  seeing  the  tumult,  inquired 
the  cause  of  it.  My  brother's  figure  was  too  indecent  to  pass 
unpunished.  The  magistrate  concluded  his  frolic,  by  order- 
ing him  an  hundred  blows  on  the  feet,  and  banishing  him  from 
the  city. 

The  Story  of  the  Barber's  Third  Brother. 

MY  Jhird  brother's  name  was  Bacbac :  he  was,  unfortunately, 
blind,  and  so  poor  that  he  was  obliged  to  beg  for  his  support, 
He  had  a  custom  of  knocking  to  any  door  he  came  to,  and  not 
answering  till  it  was  opened  to  him.  One  day,  having  knocked 
a  long  time  at  a  door,  though  often  called  out  to,  the  master  of 
the  house  at  last  opened  it,  and  asked  him  what  he  wanted  ? 
"  That  you  will  relieve  my  necessities,"  replied  Bacbac,  "  I  am 
blind,  and  cannot  earn  a  maintenance."  "  If  you  are  blind," 
said  the  man,  "give  me  your  hand."  Bacbac  did  so,  and  the 
man  led  him  up  stairs  to  a  chamber.  My  brother  began  to  hope 
for  a  bountiful  alms,  when  the  man  let  go  of  his  hand  and  said, 
"  Alas !  poor  man,  I  can  give  you  nothing.  I  can  only  pray 
God  to  restore  your  sight."  "  You  might  have  told  me  so  at 
the  door,"  replied  my  brother,  testily ;  "  and  not  given  me  the 
trouble  of  coming  up  hither."  "  And  why,  fool,"  said  the  other, 
"  do  you  not  answer  when  you  are  called  to,  and  not  give 
people  the  trouble  of  coming  to  you  ?  begone !  •  I  will  not  give 
you  anything."  "  At  least  you  will  lead  me  to  the  door  ? " 
said  Bacbac.  "  Not  I,  indeed,"  replied  the  man ;  "  the  stairs 
are  before  you,  get  out  as  you  can."  My  brother,  in  attempt- 
ing to  return,  fell  down  the  stairs,  and  was  much  bruised :  he 
recovered  the  door  with  difficulty,  where  he  sat  down  corn^ 
plaining  of  the  ill-treatment  he  had  received. 

Two  other  blind  men,  companions  of  my  brother,  coming  by. 
stopped  to  condole  with  him :  after  which  they  all  agreed  to 
lup  together  at  Bacbac's  house.  The  man  who  had  served 
15* 


174  ABABIAN   NIGHT  a 

my  brother  this  scurvy  trick  was  a  sharping  fellow.  He  had 
been  listening  and  laughing  at  my  brother,  during  his  com- 
plaint, but  when  he  heard  them  talk  of  suppmg  together,  and 
something  said  of  sharing  some  money,  he  resolved  to  go 
along  with  them.  Accordingly  he  followed,  and  entered  the 
house  with  them,  unperceived.  As  soon  as  they  had  shut  the 
door,  they  began  to  feel  about  with  their  sticks  to  discover  if 
any  one  had  intruded  amongst  them ;  this  perplexed  the  sharp- 
er much  •  till,  as  he  was  striving  to  avoid  them,  he  espied  a 
rope  hanging  from  the  ceiling.  As  he  was  an  active  fellow, 
he  easily  jumped  up,  caught  hold  of  it,  and  hung  by  it  till  they 
had  finished  their  search. 

The  blind  men  then  began  to  talk  of  their  affairs.  Bacbac 
produced  a  large  bag  of  cash,  out  of  which  he  gave  the  others 
ten  drachms  each,  and  took  the  same  sum  himself.  "  There 
now  remains,"  said  he,  "  ten  thousand  drachms,  which  we  will 
weigh  or  tell,  if  you  desire  it."  His  companions  declared  they 
were  fully  satisfied,  on  which  he  tied  up  the  bag  and  put  it 
away.  They  then  produced  the  provision  which  had  been 
given  them  during  the  day.  The  sharper  sat  himself  down 
beside  my  brother,  and  began  to  pick  out  the  nicest  bits  and 
eat  them.  But  whatever  care  he  took,  my  brother  heard  his 
chaps  going,  and  cried  out,  "  We  are  undone !  there  is  a  stran- 
ger among  us."  Saying  this,  he  seized  the  sharper,  and  began 
to  beat  him,  crying  out,  thieves  !  The  other  blind  men  also  fell 
upon  him ;  but  the  sharper,  who  was  a  stout  young  fellow, 
and  had  the  advantage  of  his  sight,  dealt  his  blows  about 
among  the  blind  men  very  severely,  crying  out,  "  thieves ! " 
louder  than  any  of  them. 

The  uproar  speedily  brought  in  the  neighbors,  who,  having 
parted  the  combatants,  demanded  the  cause  of  the  quarrel. 
Bacbac  cried  out,  "gentlemen,  this  man  is  a  thief,  and  has 
crept  in  among  us,  to  rob  us  of  the  little  money  we  have  got." 
The  sharper  (who  as  soon  as  the  neighbors  came  in  had  shut 
via  eye*?  and  feigned  himself  also  blind)  cried  out,  "  he  is  a 


ENTERTAINMENTS  175 

flar.  I  s\\ear  to  you  by  the  life  of  the  caliph,  that  I  aiu  theL 
companion ;  and  they  refuse  to  give  me  my  share  ;  they  have 
all  three  fallen  upon  me,  and  I  demand  justice." 

The  neighbors  considered  the  matter  as  too  serious  a  busi- 
ness for  them  to  settle ;  they  therefore  conveyed  them  before 
a  magistrate.  As  soon  as  they  came  into  his  presence,  the 
sharper  cried  out,  "  Venerable  sir,  we  are  all  guilty  of  a  great 
offence,  but  having  taken  an  oath  not  to  confess,  unless  we  are 
bastinadoed,  by  that  means  only  can  you  come  at  the  truth." 
The  magistrate  would  not  hear  a  word  from  either  :tf  the 
others,  but  immediately  put  him  under  that  discipline. 

The  sharper  had  the  courage  to  bear  twenty  or  thirty  blows, 
when,  as  if  overcome  with  pain,  he  opened  one  eye,  and  pres- 
ently after  the  other,  crying  out  for  mercy.  The  judge  sus- 
pended the  punishment,  and  demanded  by  what  miracle  he  had 
so  suddenly  recovered  his  sight.  "  If  sir,"  said  he,  "  you  will 
pardon  me,  and  as  a  pledge  intrust  me  with  your  seal  ring,  J 
will  make  an  important  discovery."  The  judge  consented,  and 
gave  him  the  ring.  "  Sir,"  said  the  sharper,  "  we  are  none  of 
us  blind,  but  feign  ourselves  so ;  by  which  means  we  enter 
peoples'  houses,  and  play  many  bad  tricks  unsuspected.  We. 
nave  amassed  by  our  rogueries  the  sum  of  ten  thousand 
drachms,  which  you  will  find  concealed  in  a  cupboard  in  the 
house  we  came  from.  This  evening  I  demanded  my  share, 
and  declared  I  would  leave  off  so  infamous  a  way  of  life ;  and 
it  was  on  this  account  that  they  fell  upon  me  and  beat  me." 

The  magistrate  sent  and  searched  for  the  money,  which 
being  found  confirmed  the  sharper's  testimony.  The  judge,  in 
a  mge,  ordered  the  blind  men  to  be  bastinadoed,  till  they 
opened  their  eyes.  In  vain  they  protested  it  was  utterly  im- 
possible for  them  to  do  so  ;  in  vain  they  took  heaven  to  witness 
Ihat  their  accuser  was  a  cheat  and  a  liar :  they  receive**.  eacL 
two  hundred  blows,  the  sharper  all  the  while  exhorting  them 
to  open  their  eyes  and  shorten  their  punishment. 

The  judge  finding  after  so  severe  a  chastisement  that  ttiey 
still  appeared  as  before,  and  continued  to  assert  their  inno 


A  76  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

cence,  began  to  hesitate.  He  ordered  the  executioner  to  stty 
and  contented  himself  with  banishing  them  from  the  city. 
after  having  given  one  fourth  of  their  money  to  the  sharper, 
ami  confiscated  the  rest. 


The  Story  of  the  Barber's  Fourth  Brother. 

ALCOUZ  was  the  name  of  my  fourth  brother  He  was  a 
butcher  by  profession.  One  day  an  old  man,  with  a  long 
white  beard,  came  and  bought  some  meat  of  him.  The  money 
with  which  he  paid  him  was  so  fresh  and  well  coined,  that  my 
brother  laid  it  apart  by  itself.  The  same  old  man  came  every 
day  for  a  considerable  time,  and  always  paid  for  his  meat  in 
the  same  sort  of  specie,  which  Alcouz  as  regularly  put  apart 
from  his  other  cash. 

At  length  having  occasion  to  buy  some  sheep,  he  was  obliged 
to  use  this  fine  money.  But  on  opening  his  chest,  instead 
of  cash,  he  saw  only  a  parcel  of  leaves  clipped  round  tc 
the  size  of  specie.  My  brother  was  alarmed  at  this  phe- 
nomenon. He  ran  out  to  his  neighbors,  weeping,  and  was  be- 
ginning to  tell  them  what  had  befallen  him,  when  he  saw  the 
old  man  coming  towards  them.  He  ran  up  to  him,  and  took 
him  by  the  collar,  crying  out,  "  Help,  Mussulmen !  hear  how 
wickedly  this  old  fellow  has  defrauded  me ! " 

The  old  man  stood  with  great  unconcern,  wLile  my  brother 
related  his  case  to  the  bystanders.  When  he  had  finished  his 
story,  the  old  man  said  to  him  in  a  haughty  style, "  You  would 
act  wisely  to  let  me  go,  and  not  compel  me  to  expose  you  aa 
you  deserve  for  thus  publicly  affronting  me."  Alcouz  defied 
and  threatened  him ;  on  which  the  old  man  replied,  "  you  will 
have  me  tell  it  then  ?  "  and  turned  to  the  people,  "  know,"  said 
he, "  my  friends,  this  fellow  instead  of  selling  you  mutton,  sells 
you  man's  flesh."  At  this  moment  there  is  a  man  with  his 
throat  cut,  hung  up  in  his  shop  like  a  sheep  !  " 

My  brother  had  just  before  killed  a  sherp,  dressed  it,  and 
hung  it  up  as  usual  He  protested  what  the  old  man  said  wai 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  17* 

false  f.  but  the  mob  being  prejudiced  against  him  &y  this  acciv 
sation,  would  go  to  his  shop,  and  search  it.  They  found  there, 
as  they  thought,  a  man  murdered  and  hung  up  as  mutton ;  for 
the  old  man,  who  was  a  magician,  deceived  the  eyes  of  thf 
people,  as  he  did  those  of  my  brother  when  he  made  hiii 
take  leaves  instead  of  money.  The  rage  of  the  multitude 
was  so  great  against  Alcouz,  that  they  dismissed  the  magiViaa 
w  ho  got  away  as  fast  as  he  could ;  and  every  one  was  eager  to 
1  nastise  my  unfortunate  brother.  They  conveyed  him  before 
he  judge  of  the  police,  where  a  great  number  were  ready  to 
declare  his  guilt  on  oath.  As  Alcouz,  notwithstanding,  strecu 
ously  asserted  his  innocence,  the  judge  sent  some  of  his  officers 
with  the  accusers,  to  bring  the  body  of  the  murdered  man  be- 
fore him ;  but  when  they  came  to  the  shop,  they  found  only 
the  carcass  of  a  sheep. 

When  this  account  was  brought  to  the  magistrate  he  was 
confounded,  nor  knew  how  to  determine.  As  the  body  was 
not  found,  he  would  not  put  my  brother  to  death  ;  but  as  many 
witness  protested  they  had  seen  a  man  slaughtered  in  the  shop 
e  ordered  him  five  hundred  stripes,  confiscated  his  effects, 
and  banished  him  the  city. 

Poor  Alcouz  left  Bagdad  by  night,  and  the  next  evening 
drew  near  another  town  where  he  was  unknown ;  as  he 
advanced  towards  the  gate,  he  heard  a  great  noise  of  horsemer. 
behind  him.  After  what  had  befallen  him,  he  dreaded  every 
thing.  He  took  it  into  his  head  that  these  men  were  pursuing 
him,  and  to  avoid  them  he  entered  the  court-yard  of  a  great 
house,  and  endeavored  to  hide  himself.  Two  of  the  servants 
saw  him ;  and  when  the  unlucky  Alcouz  had  taken  possession 
of  his  hiding-place,  they  seized  him  as  a  thief,  who  had  con- 
cealed himself  there  with  the  intent  to  rob  their  master.  They 
disregarded  his  protestations  of  innocence,  and  hurried  him  be 
fore  a  magistrate,  who  ordered  him  an  hundred  stripes  on  sus 
picion ;  but  when  they  had  made  bare  his  back,  and  saw  the 
marks  of  his  former  flagellation,  the  judge  concluded  he  wag 
some  desperate  rogue  who  had  been  deservedly  punished  else 


178  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

where ;  he  doubled  therefore  the  number  of  stripes,  and  ban 
ished  him  from  that  town  also,  on  pain  of  death.  Poor  Alcoua 
could  scarcely  support  his  second  misfortune,  and  would  cer- 
tainly have  gunk  under  it,  if  I  had  not  heard  of  his  afflictions* 
and  succored  him. 


The  Story  of  the  Barber's  Fifth  Brother. 

ALNASCHAR,  my  fifth  brother,  was  very  lazy,  and  of  course 
wretchedly  poor.  On  the  death  of  our  father  we  divided  hia 
property,  and  each  of  us  received  an  hundred  drachms  of  sil- 
ver for  his  share.  Amaschar,  who  hated  labor,  laid  out  his 
money  in  fine  glasses,  and  having  displayed  his  stock  to  the 
best  advantage  in  a  large  basket,  he  took  his  stand  in  the  mar- 
ket-place, with  his  back  against  the  wall,  waiting  for  customers. 
In  this  posture  he  indulged  a  reverie,  talking  aloud  to  himself 
as  follows.  "  This  glass  cost  me  an  hundred  drachms  of  silver*, 
which  is  all  I  have  in  the  world.  I  shall  make  two  hundred 
by  retailing  it ;  and  of  these  very  shortly  four  hundred.  It 
will  not  be  long  before  these  produce  four  thousand.  Money, 
they  say,  begets  money.  I  shall  soon  therefore  be  possessed  of 
eight  thousand,  and  when  these  become  ten  thousand,  I  will 
no  longer  be  a  glass-seller.  I  will  trade  in  pearls  and  dia- 
monds ;  and  as  I  shall  become  rich  apace,  I  will  have  a  splen- 
did palace,  a  great  estate,  slaves,  eunuchs,  and  horses  :  I  will 
not,  however,  leave  traffic  till  I  have  acquired  an  hundred 
thousand  drachms.  Then  I  shall  be  as  great  as  a  prince, 
and  will  assume  manners  accordingly. 

I  will  demand  the  daughter  of  the  grand  vizier  in  marriage, 
who,  no  doubt,  will  be  glad  of  an  alliance  with  a  man  of  my 
tonsequence.  The  marriage  ceremony  shall  be  performed 
with  the  utmost  splendor  and  magnificence.  As  soon  as  I  am 
married,  I  will  present  the  lady  with  ten  young  black  eunuchs, 
the  handsomest  that  can  be  procured.  I  will  have  my  horse 
clothed  with  the  richest  housings,  ornamented  with  diamonds 
Mid  pearls,  and  will  be  attended  by  a  number  of  slaves,  aJ) 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  !?!> 

richly  dressed,  when  I  go  to  the  vizier's  palace  to  conduct  my 
irife  from  thence  to  my  own.  The  vizier  shall  receive  mo 
frith  great  pomp,  and  shall  give  me  the  right  hand  and  place 
me  above  himself,  to  do  me  the  more  honor.  On  our  return^ 
I  will  appoint  two  of  my  handsomest  slaves  to  throw  monej 
among  the  populace,  that  every  one  may  speak  well  of  my 
generosity. 

"  When  we  are  arrived  at  my  own  palace,  I  will  take  great 
Etate  upon  me,  and  hardly  speak  to  my  wife.  She  shall  dress 
herself  in  all  her  ornaments,  and  stand  before  me  as  beautiful 
as  the  full  moon  ;  but  I  will  not  look  at  her.  Her  slaves  shall 
draw  near,  and  entreat  me  to  cast  my  eyes  upon  her  ;  which, 
after  much  supplication,  I  will  deign  to  do,  though  with  greai 
indifference.  I  will  not  suffer  her  to  come  out  of  her  apartment 
without  my  leave ;  and  when  I  have  a  mind  to  visit  her  there, 
it  shall  be  in  a  manner  that  will  make  her  respect  me.  Thus 
•will  I  begin  early  to  teach  her  what  she  is  to  expect  the  rest 
of  her  life. 

"  When  her  mother  comes  to  visit  her,  she  will  intercede 
with  me  for  her.  *  Sir,'  she  will  say  (for  she  will  not  dare  to 
call  ine  son,  for  fear  of  offending  me  by  so  much  familiarity), 
'  do  not,  I  beseech,  treat  my  daughter  with  scorn ;  she  is  as 
beautiful  as  an  Houri,  and  entirely  devoted  to  you.'  But  my 
diother-in-law  may  as  well  hold  her  peace,  for  I  will  take  no 
notice  of  what  she  says.  She  will  then  pour  out  some  wine 
into  a  goblet,  and  give  it  to  my  wife,  saying,  '  Present  it  to 
your  lord  and  husband ;  he  will  not  surely  be  so  cruel  as  tt. 
refuse  it  from  BO  fair  a  hand/  My  wife  will  then  come  with 
the  glass,  and  stand  trembling  before  me  ;  and  when  she  finds 
tthat  I  do  not  look  on  her,  but  continue  to  disdain  her,  she  will 
kneel  and  entreat  me  to  accept  it ;  but  I  will  continue  inflexible. 
At  last,  redoubling  her  tears,  she  will  rise  and  put  the  goblet 
to  my  lips ;  when,  tired  with  her  importunities,  I  will  dart  a 
terrible  look  at  her,  and  give  her  such  a  push  with  my  foot,  as 
'rill  spurn  her  from  me  — "  Alnaschar  was  so  interested  in  thii 
snaginary  gran  ieur,  that  he  thrust  forth  his  foot  to  kick  tL« 


180  AKABIAN   NIGHTS 

lady,  and  by  that  means  overturned  his  glasses,  and  broke  ti><?« 
into  a  thousand  pieces. 

A  tailor,  whose  shop  was  near  him,  having  heard  his  soliloquy, 
laughed  heartily  when  he  saw  the  basket  fall.  "  What  a  slave 
you  are,"  said  he  to  my  brother,  "  to  treat  such  a  lovely  bride 
so  cruelly!  Were  I  the  vizier,  your  father-in-law,  I  would 
order  you  an  hundred  lashes  with  a  bull's  pizzle,  and  send  you 
through  the  town  with  your  character  written  on  your  forehead." 

Alnaschar  wanted  not  the  raillery  of  his  neighbor  to  make 
him  repent  his  absurd  behavior.  When  he  looked  on  the  frag- 
ments of  his  brittle  ware,  so  foolishly  demolished,  he  was  almost 
distracted ;  he  beat  his  breast,  tore  his  hair,  and  his  outcries 
Boon  gathered  a  crowd  about  him.  A  lady,  passing  by,  inquired 
the  cause  of  the  tumult ;  and  being  told  that  a  poor  man  had 
lost  all  his  substance  by  the  fall  of  his  basket  of  glass,  she  kindly 
gave  him  a  sum  equal  to  what  he  had  laid  out  in  his  goods. 

Alnaschar  returned  home  rejoicing,  and  blessing  his  benefac- 
tress. He  had  scarcely  arrived,  when  an  old  woman  came  to 
his  door,  and  requested  he  would  permit  her  to  come  in  and 
wash,  before  she  went  to  the  mosque  to  prayers.  After  she 
had  performed  the  ceremony  of  ablution,  she  entered  into  con- 
versation with  my  brother,  and  told  him  that  in  return  for  hi? 
civility,  she  would  introduce  him  to  her  lady,  a  woman  of  great 
beauty  and  fortune,  who  was  disposed  to  marry,  and  would  pay 
regard  to  her  recommendation,  which  she  would  give  to  him. 
Alnaschar  listened  to  this  fable  with  attention ;  and  being  of  a 
sanguine  temper,  he  begged  the  old  woman  would  introduce 
him  direc  tly ;  which,  after  seeming  hesitation,  she  consented 
to  do. 

My  bri  ther  was  conducted  by  his  guest  to  a  decent  house, 
md  introduced  to  a  young  lady,  who  received  him  with  civility. 
After  some  conversation,  she  arose,  and  with  a  gracious  smile 
told  him  she  liked  his  person  and  conversation  so  well,  that  she 
would  conduct  him  to  a  repast  in  the  inner  apartment.  Alnas- 
char, overjoyed  with  his  good  fortune,  followed  her  into  anothei 
roosn,  from  whence  she  withdrew,  as  she  said,  for  a  short  time 


ENTERTAINMENTS  181 

My  brother  awaked  her  return  with  impatience ;  but  when  tlit 
door  opened  again,  instead  of  a  beautiful  and  condescendirg 
lady,  there  appeared  a  tall  black  slave,  of  a  fierce  aspect,  with 
a  drawn  scimetar  in  his  hand.  At  the  sight  of  this  terrific 
figure,  the  heart  of  my  brother  sunk  within  him.  Nor  were 
his  fears  ill  grounded.  The  black  came  up  to  him,  and  gav« 
him  several  severe  cuts.  Alnaschar  was  so  terrified  that  he 
fell  down  in  a  fit.  The  slave  took  away  the  hundred  drachms 
which  the  old  woman  had  probably  seen  him  receive  ;  arid 
opening  a  trap-door,  threw  my  brother,  whom  he  supposed  dead, 
into  a  place  under  ground,  among  the  bodies  of  several  people 
whom  he  had  murdered  in  this  manner. 

When  Alnaschar  revived,  and  recollected  his  situation,  his 
first  care  was  to  bind  up  his  wounds,  in  which  he  succeeded 
pretty  well ;  he  next  ventured  to  lift  up  the  trap^  in  the  night, 
and  by  great  good  fortune,  he  made  his  way  out  of  the  house 
unobserved,  and  came  to  me  for  shelter. 

It  was  nearly  a  month  before  he  was  fully  recovered.  During 
this  time  he  contrived  a  plan  to  be  revenged,  which  he  executed 
in  this  manner :  he  disguised  himself  like  an  old  woman,  and 
took  a  large  purse,  which  he  filled  with  pieces  of  glass,  and 
tied  to  his  girdle.  He  then  took  a  scimetar,  which  he  concealed 
under  his  gown,  and  went  into  the  most  frequented  parts  of  the 
city,  in  hopes  of  meeting  the  wicked  hag,  who  had  enticed  him 
into  so  much  mischief. 

It  was  not  long  before  he  found  her ;  when,  counterfeiting  a 
woman's  voice,  he  said  to  her,  "  I  am  a  stranger,  just  arrived, 
and  should  be  glad  to  weigh  five  hundred  pieces  of  gold,  to  see 
if  they  will  pass  here ;  can  you  recommend  me  to  a  goldsmith  ?  * 
'•  Friend,"  replied  the  old  woman,  "  you  could  not  have  applied 
to  a  more  proper  person ;  my  son  is  a  goldsmith ;  come  with 
me,  and  he  shall  weigh  them  for  you  directly."  The  pretended 
traveller  agreed ;  and  the  old  woman  led  him,  as  he  expected, 
*o  the  fatal  mansion  from  whence  he  had  so  narrowly  escaped. 

On  his  arrival,  the  black  came  to  him,  and  desired  he  would 
into  an  inner  room  where  the  scales  were.  Alnaschar 
16 


1 82  ARABIAN    NTGHTS" 

readily  followed  liim ;  and  on  entering  the  hall,  with  one  blow 
cut  off  the  head  of  his  treacherous  conductor.  The  old  woman 
presently  came  in,  in  high  spirits ;  but  when  she  saw  what  had 
happened,  she  set  up  a  great  cry,  and  would  have  fled ;  my 
brother  prevented  her ;  and  after  reproaching  her  as  she  de» 
served,  he  put  her  to  dea*h,  and  tumbled  both  the  dead  bodies 
through  the  trap-door. 

Alnaschar  spared  the  %^oung  lady,  who  on  her  part  showed 
him  the  several  coffers  full  of  gold  which  these  wretches  had 
so  wickedly  obtained.  This  wealth  he  resolved  to  seize ;  and 
leaving  the  lady,  he  went  in  search  of  porters,  with  sacks,  to 
remove  it ;  but  she  took  advantage  of  his  absence,  and  on  .his 
return  the  treasure  was  gone.  A  great  quantity  of  valuable 
movables,  however,  remained,  with  which  he  loaded  his  porters, 
and  carried  away  a  considerable  booty.  Had  my  brother  been 
content  with  this,  he  had  been  wise;  but  being  covetous,  he 
paid  so  many  visits  to  the  house  with  his  porters,  that  the  curi- 
osity of  the  neighbors  was  excited.  An  information  to  the 
magistrate  followed  ;  all  the  plunder  was  laid  hold  of  by  him  ; 
and  poor  Alnaschar  thought  he  was  well  off,  when  the  judge 
was  content  with  banishing  him  the  city. 

The  Story  of  the  Barleys  Sixth  Brother. 

SHACABAC,  my  youngest  brother,  was  so  poor  that  he  was 
reduced  to  beggary ;  but  having  some  humor,  he  contrived  to 
fare  tolerably  well.  It  happened,  one  evening,  that  he  applied 
for  an  alms  at  the  palace  of  a  Barmecide ;  when  the  port  <x 
said  to  him,  "  Go  in  and  find  out  our  master ;  he  will  not  send 
you  away  dissatisfied." 

Thus  encouraged,  my  brother  entered  the  palace,  and  strolled 
from  room  to  room,  till  he  came  into  a  hall  adorned  with  paint- 
ings of  gold,  azure  foliage,  and  splendidly  furnished.  At  the 
upper  end  of  this  room  he  saw  a  venerable  man  with  a  long 
white  beard,  whose  appearance  carried  with  it  an  air  of  dignity. 
lly  brother  concluded,  as  was  the  truth,  that  it  was  the  master 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  181 

M  the  house  ;  he  saluted  him  therefore  with  the  greatest  res/pect 
The  Barmecide  received  him  kindly,  and  asked  him  what  1m 
wanted.  Shacabac,  in  an  humble  manner,  related  his  necessi- 
ties, and  besought  relief;  concluding  his  sad  tale  by  declaring 
that  he  had  not  eaten  anything  the  whole  day. 

The  Barmecide,  when  my  brother  had  ended,  put  his  handa 
to  his  garments,  as  if  he  would  have  rent  his  clothes.  "  Is  it 
possible,"  said  he,  "  that  such  a  man  as  you,  can  be  as  poor  as 
you  say  ?  This  must  not  be.  But  come,  as  you  have  not  eaten 
to-day,  you  must  be  ready  to  die  with  hunger ;  ho,  boy !  bring 
in  the  water  to  wash  our  hands,  and  order  supper  immediately.*2 
Shacabac  was  confounded  at  this  gracious  reception,  and  waa 
about  to  express  his  gratitude,  when  the  Barmecide  began  to 
rub  his  hands,  as  though  some  one  poured  water  on  them,  arid 
invited  my  brother  to  come  and  wash  with  him.  No  boy  ap- 
peared, nor  was  there  either  basin  or  water ;  yet  my  brother 
thought  he  ought  not,  in  complaisance,  contradict  his  host ;  he 
came  forward,  therefore,  and  did  as  he  did. 

"  Come,"  said  the  Barmecide, "  let  us  now  have  supper ; "  and 
though  nothing  was  brought,  he  pretended  to  cut,  as  if  a  dish 
of  meat  were  before  him,  and  began  to  chew,  saying  to  my 
brother,  "  Eat,  friend,  eat  heartily  ;  you  said  you  was  hungry, 
but  you  proceed  as  if  you  had  no  appetite."  Shacabac  gave 
readily  in  to  the  joke,  and  imitating  the  Barmecide,  said,  "  You 
see,  my  lord,  I  lose  no  time."  "  Boy,"  said  the  old  gentleman, 
"  bring  us  another  dish.  Come,  my  good  friend,  taste  of  this 
mutton  and  barley  broth,  unless  you  prefer  part  of  that  goose, 
with  sweet  sauce,  vinegar,  honey,  raisins,  grey  peas,  and  dry 
figs ;  eat,  however,  sparingly  of  it,  as  we  have  a  variety  of  good 
things  to  come."  Shacabac,  fainting  with  hunger,  pretendeJ 
Jo  feast  heartily  on  these  invisible  dainties.  The  Barmecide 
continued  to  call  for  other  dishes,  and  boasted  much  of  a  lamb 
fed  with  pistachio  nuts ;  "  a  dish,"  said  he,  "  you  will  find  at  no 
table  but  mine ;  let  me  help  you  to  some,  and  judge  if  I  havo 
not  reason  to  praise  it."  My  brother  made  as  if  he  received 
tie  lam *:,  and  ats  it  with  great  pleasure.  "Nothing  can  b* 


184  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

more  delicious,"  said  he ;  "  your  table,  my  lord,  abound s  wi(t 
good  things."  "  Eat  heartily,  then,"  said  the  Barmecide,  "  you 
tannot  oblige  me  more."  "You  see,  my  lord,"  replied  my 
brother,  "  how  I  testify  my  approbation." 

An  imaginary  dessert  succeeded.  The  Barmecide  did  not 
fail  to  recommend  the  several  fruits  and  confections.  Shacabar 
extolled  them  yet  more ;  till,  tired  of  moving  his  jaws,  ani 
having  nothing  to  eat,  he  declared  he  could  eat  no  more.  "  Let 
as  drink  then,"  said  the  Barmecide ;  "  bring  some  wine."  "  Ex- 
cuse me,  my  lord,"  said  Shacabac, u  I  will  drink  no  wine,  because 
it  is  forbidden."  "  You  are  too  scrupulous,"  replied  his  host ; 
"  you  must  not  refuse  to  keep  me  company."  "  I  cannot  refuse 
four  lordship,"  replied  my  brother,  "  but  must  entreat  you  not 
to  urge  the  glass  ;  for  I  am  not  accustomed  to  wine,  and  fear 
lest  it  should  betray  me  into  anything  like  disrespect  to  you." 
"  Wine,  here,"  called  out  the  Barmecide  ;  then  holding  out  his 
hand,  as  if  to  receive  a  bottle,  he  turned  to  my  brother,  and 
seemed  to  fill  him  a  glass,  and  himself  another.  Shacabac 
made  as  if  he  took  up  a  glass,  and  bowing  very  low,  he  drank 
the  health  of  his  host.  The  Barmecide  continued  to  supply 
his  guest  with  imaginary  bumpers,  till  at  length  my  brother 
(weary  of  the  joke,  and  beginning  to  be  a  little  out  of  humor) 
affected  to  be  drunk,  got  up  from  his  seat,  and  gave  the  Bar- 
mecide so  hearty  a  box  on  the  ear,  that  he  knocked  him  down. 
He  was  about  to  repeat  the  blow,  but  the  old  gentleman  calling 
out,  he  pretended  to  come  to  himself.  "  You  have  been  so 
good,  my  lord,"  said  he,  "  to  admit  your  slave  to  your  table, 
and  to  give  him  a  noble  treat ;  but  you  should  not  have  com- 
pelled me  to  drink  wine,  as  I  told  you  I  feared  it  would  cause 
me  to  misbehave,  which  I  am  exceedingly  sorry  it  has  done." 

The  Barmecide,  instead  of  being  in  a  rage,  laughed  heartily 
"  1  have  long  wished,"  said  he,  "  for  a  man  of  your  character ; 
but  come,  we  will  now  sup  in  good  earnest."  Saying  this,  he 
clapped  his  hands,  and  the  servants  appearing,  he  ordered  sup- 
per ;  and  the  several  dishes  they  had  tasted  of  in  fancy,  wert 
really  set  li  efore  them. 


ENTERTAINMENTS  183 

The  old  gentleman  finding  my  brother  a  man  of  good  un- 
derstanding, as  well  as  of  much  pleasantry,  retained  him  in  his 
pervice.  For  twenty  years  Shacabac  lived  happy  in  his  pro- 
tection ;  but  then  the  generous  Barmecide  died,  and  his  estate 
being  seized  by  the  caliph,  his  dependents  were  all  dismissed. 

Shacabac,  after  this,  undertook  a  pilgrimage  to  Mecca :  tho 
caravan  he  joined  were  attacked  and  dispersed  by  a  numbei 
of  Bedouins,  and  my  brother  became  a  slave  to  one  of  them 
His  afflictions  in  this  situation  were  very  grievous,  till  at 
length  I  heard  of  his  distress,  ransomed  him,  and  brought  him 
home. 

The  sultan  of  Casgar  was  highly  pleased  with  these  stories, 
and  expressed  a  desire  to  see  this  talkative  barber.  He  was 
soon  found  and  introduced  to  the  sultan.  His  appearance  waa 
respectable;  he  had  a  pleasant  countenance;  and  his  long 
beard,  as  white  as  snow,  denoted  his  age,  which  was  upwards  of 
ninety.  The  prince  received  him  very  graciously,  but  laughed 
at  him  for  his  prattling.  "  It  would  be  a  bad  time  for  me," 
said  he,  "  to  be  silent  now :  I  have  heard  the  story  of  little 
Hunchback,  and  am  acquainted  with  the  regard  your  majesty 
had  for  him ;  I  beg  I  may  be  permitted  to  examine  the  body  " 

After  having  surveyed  it  some  time,  the  barber  fell  into  a 
great  fit  of  laughter,  without  considering  the  respect  due  to  the 
sultan.  "  Silence,  man,"  said  the  prince  to  him,  "  why  do  you 
laugh  so  ?  " 

"I  swear  by  your  majesty's  good  humors,"  answered  the 
barber,  "  that  this  is  a  very  extraordinary  business."  Hunch- 
back is  not  dead.  If  I  do  not  immediately  restore  him,  I  aro 
content  to  pass  for  the  prattling  fellow  I  hav>  been  very 
anhandsomely  called."  Saying  this,  he  put  an  instrument 
down  Hunchback's  throat,  and  pulled  out  a  bit  of  fish  and 
bone,  which  he  showed  to  the  sultan ;  he  then  took  out  a  vial 
of  balsam,  with  which  he  rubbed  Hunchback's  neck,  who  pres- 
ently sneezed,  and  gave  other  signs  of  life ;  and  in  a  short 
time  waa  perfectly  recovered. 


186  AKABIAN    NIGHTS' 

The  sultan  wa,s  astonished  at  this  wonderful  cure.  H« 
formed  a  very  different  opinion  of  the  barber,  from  what  he 
had  before  conceived ;  and  engaged  him  in  his  service,  as  a 
man  of  very  singular  abilities.  Before  he  dismissed  the  tailor, 
the  Jewish  doctor,  the  purveyor,  and  the  Christian  merchant, 
he  ordered  each  of  them  to  be  clothed  in  his  presence,  with  a 
rich  robe  of  honor,  as  a  recompense  for  their  integrity  and 
their  sufferings. 


The  history  of  Aboulhassen  All  Ebn  Becar,  and  Schemselnihart 
favorite  of  the  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid. 

THE  king  of  the  isle  of  Ebene,  having  the  audacity  to  rebel 
against  the  illustrious  Haroun  Alraschid,  to  whom  he  was  trib- 
utary, the  caliph  sent  a  powerful  army  to  chastise  him.  The 
event  showed  the  rashness  of  the  insurgents.  The  natives  of 
Ebene  were  soon  subdued  ;  and  their  king  with  all  his  fumily, 
except  an  infant  daughter,  fell  in  the  dispute. 

The  princess,  too  young  to  be  sensible  of  her  misfortune, 
was  brought  to  Bagdad,  and  educated  in  the  harem  of  the  ca- 
liph. Nature  had  endowed  her  with  every  amiable  qualifica- 
tion ;  and  the  utmost  pains  were  taken  in  her  education.  As 
she  approached  the  age  of  a  woman,  her  beauty  increased,  and 
received  such  lustre  from  her  vivacity,  her  wit,  and  elegant 
accomplishments,  that  she  became  irresistible. 

The  caliph  ever  treated  her  with  great  tenderness;  her 
sprightly,  yet  artless  carriage,  her  gentle  manners,  and  benev- 
olent disposition,  gained  exceedingly  on  his  affections ;  and 
when  time  had  ripened  the  beauties'  of  her  person,  the  amo- 
rous prince  declared  his  intention  of  sharing  with  her  the 
throne  of  Persia. 

Schemselnihar  heard  this  determination  of  the  caliph  with 
pleasure.  She  had  been  accustomed  to  his  endearments  from 
her  infancy  ;  she  felt  a  filial  affection  for  him,  which  she  sup- 
posed was  love.  The  caliph,  though  four  times  her  age,  wai 
pleasant  and  agreeable.  As  she  was  debarred  the  sight  of  aT 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  l& 

men,  except  him  and  his  attendants,  she  thought  him  the  mosi 
amiable  of  mankind.  If  she  reflected  on  her  approaching 
nuptials  without  desire,  it  was  without  disgust  also.  Matters 
were  in  this  situation,  when  business  of  emergency  obliged  the 
caliph  to  leave  the  capital  for  a  short  time. 

The  affairs  of  the  harem  were  managed  by  an  old  slave 
named  Fatima.  It  was  a  part  of  her  duty  to  provide  every 
thing  necessary,  in  the  city ;  and  the  person  she  used  to  apply 
U*  for  what  she  wanted,  was  Ebn  Thaher,  a  considerable  mer- 
chant, of  great  integrity.  Fatima  had  attended  on  Schemsel- 
ftihar  from  her  infancy,  and  was  attached  to  her  by  the  most 
tender  affection.  She  used  often  to  speak  of  her  to  Ebn  Tha- 
her, with  the  fondness  of  a  mother ;  and  had  as  often  occasion 
to  praise  the  obliging  disposition  of  the  merchant  to  Schem- 
selnihar. 

A  few  days  after  the  departure  of  the  caliph,  a  strange  whim 
seized  the  young  lady.  She  had  a  desire  to  see  the  city ;  and 
besought  Fatima  to  take  her  with  her  the  next  time  she  went 
thither.  Fatima,  little  apprehending  any  bad  consequence, 
fondly  consented,  and  apprized  the  merchant,  that  on  an 
appointed  day,  the  caliph's  favorite  would  come  in  private  to 
view  the  city  ;  and  intended  to  repose  at  his  house. 

Ebn  Thaher  received  her  with  all  possible  respect,  but  it  so 
happened  that  when  she  arrived  there  was  with  the  merchant 
a  young  nobleman,  of  the  ancient  royal  family  of  Persia, 
named  Aboulhassen  Ali  Ebn  Becar.  This  prince  had  received 
from  nature  every  advantage  of  body  and  mind,  nor  had  he 
neglected  to  cultivate  them.  Schemselnihar  was  struck  with 
him  at  first  sight ;  and  when  he  would  have  modestly  with- 
drawn, she  made  signs  to  Fatima  that  she  should  not  let  him 
depart.  When  a  collation  was  brought  in,  the  ladies  unve  iled, 
'and  Aboulhassen  in  his  turn,  was  fascinated  by  the  beauty  of 
the  princess.  The  intention  of  viewing  the  city  was  at  an  end. 
Schemselnihar,  new  to  love,  indulged  sensations  so  delightful, 
and  thought  only  how  she  might  make  herself  agreeable  to 
Aboulhassen  ;  who  on  his  part,  became  entirely  dnaraoured 


188  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

Ttey  remained  together  till  evening,  and  parted  with  in  ex 
pressible  reluctance  on  both  sides. 

New  ideas  now  took  possession  of  SchemselniLar,  among 
which  none  so  often  arose  as  an  abhorrence  of  marriage  with 
the  caliph.  She  devoted  herself  to  her  beloved  Aboulhassen ; 
and  though  she  saw  no  probability  of  being  united  to  him,  yet 
fihe  determined  to  encourage  that  hope.  The  indulgent  Fatima 
reasoned  with  her  against  so  improper  an  attachment,  but  mis- 
led by  her  fondness  for  the  princess,  she  repeatedly  permitted 
interviews  between  the  two  lovers  at  the  house  of  Ebn  Thaher. 
The  merchant,  also,  though  he  pointed  oat  to  the  prince  the 
folly  and  the  danger  of  his  pursuit,  was  yet  weak  enough  to 
promote  the  meetings  of  the  young  couple. 

The  caliph  had  put  Schemselnihar  in  possession -of  the^part- 
ments  belonging  to  the  royal  consort,  and  had  permitted  her  to 
select  her  own  attendants.  The  infatuated  princess  determined 
to  give  Aboulhassen  an  entertainment  worthy  her  love :  and 
when  everything  was  ready ,~ she  sent  Fatima  to  conduct  him 
and  the  merchant  to  partake  of  it.  The  faithful  slave  exe- 
cuted her  dangerous  commission  with  dexterity,  and  contrived 
to  introduce  them  unnoticed  within  the  apartments  of  the  prin- 
cess. 

The  reception  was  magnificent.  A  wonderful  display  of 
diamonds  and  rubies,  fixed  in  burnished  gold,  and  disposed  ip 
the  most  beautiful  forms,  delighted  the  eye:  columns  of  the 
rarest  marble  supported  the  dome ;  between  them  were  placed 
vessels  of  agate,  porphyry,  jet,  jasper,  crystal,  and  other  pre- 
cious materials :  the  floor  was  covered  with  the  richest  carpet- 
Ing,  and  the  walks  in  the  gardens  were  formed  of  little  stones 
of  various  colors,  so  as  to  resemble  the  carpet  in  the  saloon, 
and  seem  a  continuation  of  it ;  two  beautiful  canals  watered 
the  trees  and  shrubs,  which  were  of  the  rarest  kind,  and  plant- 
ed with  great  judgment :  their  odours  gratified  the  smell,  as 
'he  charming  concert  of  the  singing  birds  did  the  ear ;  in  * 
word  everything*  was  to  be  found  which  luxury  or  grandeui 
sould  possibly  desire. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  18$ 

in  this  terrestrial  paradise  the  love-sick  Schemselnihar  re- 
w  >ved  her  equally  enamoured  Aboulhassen,  unmindful  of  hei 
engagement  with  the  Commander  of  the  Faithful,  whom  she 
now  began  to  thmk  of  with  terror  and  abhorrence ;  nor  did 
the  prince  suffer  the  fear  of  future  evils,  or  of  present  danger, 
to  damp  the  delight  he  felt  at  being  received  with  so  much 
distinction  by  the  object  of  his  vows.  The  entertainment  was 
Bumptuoas  beyond  description,  and  was  followed  by  an  admi- 
rable concert ;  after  which  Aboulhassen  and  Schemselnihar  sung 
to  each  other  by  turns  extempore  verses,  descriptive  of  their 
mutual  affection,  which  they  neither  wished  to  restrain  nor 
conceal.  They  plighted  vows  of  unceasing  constancy,  and 
seemed,  by  seizing  the  present  moment,  to  snatch  those  joys 
from  ?he  power  of  fortune  before  a  fatal  interruption  should 
put  an  end  to  them  forever. 

Tl»at  event  was  even  now  come.  Their  caresses  were  dis- 
turbed by  a  message  to  Schemselnihar,  announcing  the  arrival 
of  the  caliph,  and  his  intention  of  presently  visiting  her.  The 
distress  of  the  lovers  could  only  be  equalled  by  the  despair  of 
Ebn  Thaher,  who  gave  himself  up  for  lost.  Fatima  alone 
had  recollection.  She  ordered  the  slaves  immediately  to  pre* 
pare  for  the  reception  of  the  caliph ;  she  tore  the  lovers  asun- 
der, and  as  it  was  impossible  to  convey  the  visitors  away,  at 
that  time,  without  discovery,  she  conducted  them  to  a  place 
where  they  might  continue  in  safety. 

By  the  time  the  caliph  arrived  all  was  in  order,  and  Schem> 
Belnihar  tolerably  composed.  Haroun  embraced  her  with  great 
affection ;  and  seeing  everything  set  out  in  the  utmost  splendor, 
made  no  doubt  but  that  she  had  decorated  the  palace  in  this 
mariner  for  his  reception.  Observing  the  saloon  was  shut,  he 
*sked  the  reason,  when  Schemselnihar  made  signs  to  have  it 
thrown  open.  Immediately  the  grandest  illumination  that  can 
be  conceived  was  discovered.  A  spectacle,  not  more  brilliant 
than  unexpected,  which  the  caliph  received  as  a  proof  of  the 
princess*  attachment  to  him,  but  which  she  had  prepared  for  * 
*ery  different  purpose 


190  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

From  the  time  the  saloon  was  thrown  open,  ihe  prince  cl 
Persia  could  see  from  his  hiding-place  everything  that  passed 
in  the  hall ;  and  had  the  torment  of  beholding  his  beloved 
Schemselnihar  obliged  to  receive  the  caresses  of  his  too  power- 
ful rival.  Ebn  Thaher  could  with  difficulty  restrain  his  trans* 
ports.  At  length  a  concert  commenced,  in  the  course  of  which 
the  princess  addressed  a  most  passionate  air  to  Aboulhassen, 
and  sung  it  with  so  much  feeling,  that  she  herself  was  over- 
come with  it  and  fainted  away.  The  caliph,  who  still  applied 
everything  that  passed  to  himself,  was  exceedingly  concerned, 
and  busied  himself  very  earnestly  in  endeavoring  to  restore 
her.  At  this  juncture  Fatima  went  to  dismiss  the  prmce  and 
his  friend,  but  had  the  greatest  difficulty  in  effecting  it.  Aboul- 
hassen  had  sympathized  so  truly  with  the  princesi  that  he 
also  had  fainted ;  and  when  Ebn  Thaher,  at  last,  with  the 
assistance  of  Fatima,  got  him  safe  out  of  the  palace,  and  con- 
veyed him  home,  he  was  obliged  to  be  put  to  bed,  from  whence 
he  could  not  rise  for  several  days. 

This  accident  opened  the  eyes  of  Ebn  Thaher.  He  saw  at 
once  the  consequences  of  this  fatal  intrigue;  and  that  if  he 
could  not  persuade  the  prince  of  Persia  to  drop  all  thoughts 
of  carrying  it  on,  he  had  but  one  way  to  escape  inevitable 
ruin.  As  soon  as  the  prince  was  tolerably  recovered,  the  mer- 
chant in  the  most  animated  manner  pointed  out  to  him  the 
certain  destruction  he  would  bring  not  only  on  himself,  but  on 
the  lovely  Schemselnihar  also,  if  he  did  not  subdue  his  ill- 
placed  passion.  Ebn  Thaher  reasoned,  but  Aboulhassen  loved. 
Deaf  as  the  winds  to  any  advice  that  made  against  his  wishes, 
he  declared  that  no  danger,  however  pressing,  should  make 
him  for  one  moment  cease  to  adore  her.  "  I  know  not  yet,* 
continued  he,  "  what  measures  I  can  pursue  to  rescue  my 
princess  from  a  situation  so  terrible  to  us  both ;  but  something 
I  will  attempt ;  and  if  I  perish,  I  shall  have  the  satisfaction  oi' 
giving  up  my  life  for  one  that  well  deserves  such  a  sacrifice." 

Ebn  Thaher  WAS  still  more  alarmed  at  this  conversation, 
He  settle* I  his  affairs  wUh  all  possible  despatch ;  and  two  da)  * 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  19*1 

after  he  took  his  family  with  him,  and  set  off  for  Balsora, 
under  pretence  of  business  which  would  oblige  him  to  reside 
there  for  some  time.  The  merchant,  by  this  prudent  measure, 
secured  himself;  and,  in  fact,  did  all  he  could  to  save  the 
lovers.  As  all  intercourse  was  now  at  an  end,  they  would 
probably  have  submitted  reluctantly  to  their  destiny  if  an  acci 
dent  had  not  enabled  them  to  continue  their  correspondence. 

Opposite  Ebn  Thaher's  house  there  lived  a  jeweller  who, 
having  little  business  to  employ  him,  bestowed  much  of  his 
attention  on  his  neighbors.  Shrewd,  artful,  and  avaricious,  he 
sought  to  turn  everything  to  his  own  advantage,  and  having 
a  pleasant  carriage,  which  hid  his  vices,  he  was  but  too  often 
successful. 

This  man  had  not  been  a  careless  observer  of  what  pasted 
at  Ebn  Thaher's.  He  noticed  that  Fatima  and  the  prince  of 
Persia  met  continually  there ;  and  that  the  former  frequently 
brought  another  woman  with  her,  who,  though  close  veiled, 
had  an  air  of  distinction,  and  was  manifestly  much  younger, 
The  illness  of  the  prince,  the  distress  of  the  merchant,  he  had 
not  failed  to  remark.  Being  a  little  acquainted  with  Ebn 
Thaher,  he  ventured  to  question  him  on  these  subjects ;  and 
though  the  merchant  was  careful,  and  almost  silent,  yet  his 
confusion,  and  the  little  he  did  say,  afforded  some  information 
to  his  busy  neighbor.  Ebn  Thaher,  leaving  Bagdad  abruptly, 
confirmed  this  sagacious  fellow  in  his  opinion,  that  the  prince 
had  dared  to  intrigue  in  the  harem  of  the  caliph ;  and  that  the 
amour  was  carried  on  by  Fatima  and  the  merchant. 

In  the  mean  time  the  situation  of  the  lovers  was  truly  pitiable. 
Aboulhassen,  tormented  by  a  contrariety  of  passions,  was  too 
111  to  leave  his  house ;  and  the  princess  had  no  other  consola- 
tion, under  a  severe  indisposition,  but  that  it  prevented  the 
raliph  from  urging  a  completion  of  their  nuptials.  At  length 
impatience  to  hear  from  her  lover  made  her  send  Fatima  to 
Ebn  Thaher's  to  inquire  after  him.  The  trusty  slave  was 
exceedingly  shocked  to  h*nd  the  house  shut  up ;  and  was  at  a 
JGS*  which  way  to  act,  vr*an  she  saw  the  jeweller  mak^  sign* 


192  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

for  her  to  enter  his  house.  He  told  her  that  P^ki  Thahei  haii 
left  Bagdad  in  haste,  and  that  the  prince  of  Persia  was  ill. 
Then,  by  making  the  most  of  what  he  did  know,  and  affecting 
to  know  more  than  he  did,  he  easily  obtained  from  the  fright- 
ened  and  simple  Fatima  all  the  particulars  of  the  affair. 

The  sordid  jeweller  debated  with  himself  whether  he  should 
not  disclose  the  business  to  the  caliph ;  but  after  a  little  pause, 
recollecting  that  the  prince  of  Persia  was  very  rich,  and  that 
Schemselnihar  could  command  unlimited  treasure,  he  was  not 
long  at  a  loss  which  side  to  choose.  He  concluded  the  lovers 
would  pay  more  liberally  for  his  assistance  in  carrying  on  their 
amour  than  the  caliph  would  for  a  disagreeable  piece  of  intel- 
ligence. He  declared  himself,  therefore,  ready  to  supply  the 
place  of  Ebn  Thaher ;  and  with  equal  zeal,  but  more  courage, 
to  promote  the  wishes  of  the  lovers. 

Fatima  resolved  to  venture,  for  once,  to  go  to  the  house  of 
the  prince  of  Persia,  directing  the  jeweller  to  follow  her  thither. 
Aboulhassen  was  rejoiced  to  see  the  faithful  slave,  but  his  joy 
was  of  short  duration.  He  was  distressed  beyond  measure  for 
the  illness  of  his  mistress  ;  and  when  he  was  acquainted  with 
the  desertion  of  Ebn  Thaher,  he  was  overwhelmed  with  afflic- 
tion. Fatima  gave  him  every  consolation  in  her  power ;  and 
when  he  had  listened  to  her  awhile,  she  concluded  with  relating 
to  him  the  offer  of  the  jeweller. 

Despair  compelled  him  to  embrace  this  hazardous  assist- 
ance. The  jeweller  was  introduced  to  him,  and  vowed  fidelity. 
Fatima,  having  settled  in  what  manner  he  was  to  meet  her, 
tnd  convey  letters  or  messages  between  the  lovers,  took  her 
<eave  of  the  prince  and  returned  to  the  palace. 

For  some  time,  by  means  of  the  zeal  and  activity  of  the 
ne\v  emissary,  a  regular  correspondence  took  place  between 
Aboulhassen  and  the  princess.  The  avarice  of  the  jeweller 
was  gratified  beyond  his  hopes ;  he  scrupled,  therefore,  no  dan- 
ger to  oblige  his  benefactors.  Matters  could  not  remain  long 
in  this, undecided  situation.  Schemselnihar  daily  grew  better; 
end  the  caliph,  who  had  been  much  afflicted  at  her  ii 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  193 

began  fa  congratulate  her  on  her  recovery.  The  preparation! 
for  the  royal  marriage  were  no  longer  suspended ;  and  to  pre- 
vent its  taking  place  the  lovers  resolved  on  elopement. 

The  jeweller  was  directed  to  take  a  house  in  an  obscure 
part  of  the  town,  without  the  gaCe«%  where  they  proposed  to 
continue  till  the  fury  of  the  search  was  over ;  as  he  had  great 
reason  to  fear  he  should  be  suspected,  when  the  prince  and 
princess  absconded,  he  determined  to  accompany  his  patrona 
in  their  flight.  His  wealth  by  this  time  was  considerable; 
atd  he  could  not  bear  to  leave  it  to  the  care  of  others ;  he 
packed  it  up,  therefore,  in  small  bundles,  and  removed  it  from 
his  own  habitation  to  the  house  he  had  taken  for  the  prince. 

On  the  evening  of  their  intended  escape,  as  soon  as  it  was 
dark,  Schemselnihar  and  her  favorite  contrived,  with  great 
difficulty,  to  elude  the  eunuchs  and  leave  the  palace.  Aboul- 
hassen  and  the  jeweller  were  ready  to  receive  them,  and  con- 
vey them  to  the  house,  prepared  by  the  latter,  where  they 
arrived  unobserved.  But  they  had  scarce  time  to  congratulate 
each  other,  when  the  building  (which  stood  apart  from  any 
other)  was  surrounded  by  a  body  of  men,  who  broke  open  the 
doors ;  and  having  plundered  the  house  of  everything  valuable 
(among  which  was  the  whole  of  the  jeweller's  treasure)  they 
seized  the  whole  company  and  conveyed  them  over  the  river 
into  an  adjoining  forest. 

These  men  were  a  banditti  who  harbored  there ;  and  had 
by  some  means  obtained  a  knowledge  that  the  jeweller  had 
conveyed  much  wealth  into  a  house  which  stood  alone  and 
convenient  for  their  purpose.  On  their  arrival  at  their  retreat 
they  examined  their  prisoners  separately;  from  the  prince, 
trom  Schemselnihar,  and  Fatima,  they  obtained  no  informa- 
tion; but  the  dastardly  jeweller  confessed  immediately  who 
they  were.  The  event  was  not  unfavorable.  The  captain  of 
the  banditti  had  been  a  slave  of  Aboulhassen's  father ;  as  soon 
»8  he  heard  that  one  of  his  prisoners  was  the  prince  of  Persia, 
HQ  net  them  all  at  liberty,  and  ordered  his  comrades  to  convey 

17 


194  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

them  back  again,  promising  also  to  restore  the  plunder  as  BOOK 
AS  it  could  be  collected  together. 

The  banditti  conducted  them  to  the  Tigris,  and  landed  them 
on  the  side  next  the  <'ity.  But  as  they  were  about  to  return 
10  the  jeweller's  hou?^,,  they  fell  in  with  a  brigade  of  the  city 
guard,  who  examined  them  with  great  strictness,  and  were  by 
no  means  satisfied  with  their  vague  manner  of  answering 
They  were  about  to  take  them  into  custody,  when  Schemselni- 
fiar,  seeing  there  was  no  way  to  escape,  resolved  to  throw 
herself  on  the  humanity  of  the  commander.  She  drew  him 
aside  and  declared  who  she  was.  The  officer  behaved  to  her 
with  the  greatest  respect :  he  ordered  a  boat  to  convey  her 
and  her  slave  to  the  water  gate  of  the  palace,  and  dismissed 
Aboulhassen  and  the  jeweller  civilly;  though  he  would  not 
suffer  either  of  them  to  speak  again  to  the  princess  or  her 
attendant. 

The  prince  of  Persia  returned  to  his  own  house,  overcome 
with  fatigue,  grief,  and  despair.  He  refused  to  listen  to  the 
consolations  offered  him  by  his  companion.  His  imagination 
saw  everything  in  the  most  fearful  and  tormenting  light.  His 
heart  boded  only  calamity,  and  the  prognostication  was  too 
fully  verified. 

The  day  following,  Fatima  came  to  the  jeweller  in  great 
Laste,  and  drowned  in  tears.  "  I  have  once  more,"  said  she, 
"  left  the  palace.  My  business  is  to  warn  you  and  the  prince 
of  Persia  of  your  danger.  The  whole  intrigue  is  just  dis- 
covered to  the  caliph  by  a  perfidious  slave  whom  Schemselni- 
har  hath  lately  punished.  Judge  what  a  situation  we  are  all 
in !  for  my  part  I  am  determined  to  return  immediately,  and 
share  the  fate  of  my  beloved  mistress  •  we  may  possibly  escape ; 
but  for  you  and  Aboulhassen  there  i*  no  hope.  Fly,  there- 
fore, this  instant,  and  save  yourselves  from  torture  and  from 
death.15 

The  jeweller  was  too  much  alarmed  to  neglect  a  momeni 
Ibis  important  advice.  He  hastened  to  the  f  ware  ol 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  1 9A 

and,  notwithstanding  his  indisposition,  prevailed  with  him  ti 
iLse  and  leave  Bagdad  with  the  utmost  speed/  They  securoJ 
a  supply  of  money  and  jewels,  and  set  off  for  Anbar,  travel- 
ling two  days  without  stopping ;  but  just  before  they  could 
reach  a  place  of  safety,  they  were  surrounded  by  thieves  who 
plundered  them  of  everything. 

They  arrived  at  Anbar  the  next  evening,  and  the  jeweller 
rejoiced  that  they  were  out  of  the  power  of  the  caliph ;  but  the 
prince,  whose  spirits  had  been  kept  up  only  on  the  present 
danger,  sunk  under  the  pressure  of  so  many  calamities.  He 
languished  two  days  in  the  house  of  a  charitable  Mussulman, 
who  had  taken  pity  of  their  distress,  and  then  died,  —  express- 
ing in  his  last  moments  his  undiminished  love  for  the  beauteous 
Schemselnihar. 

The  jeweller  now  found  himself  in  a  very  distressed  situa- 
tion. Deprived  of  the  great  riches  he  had  obtained  by  his 
intrigues;  his  patron  dead;  his  hopes  annihilated;  an  exile 
from  his  country,  his  avaricious  spirit  still  remained ;  and  he 
determined  to  hazard  new  dangers,  in  hopes  of  recovering 
what  he  had  lost.  He  knew  the  banditti  had  engaged  to  re- 
Btore  what  they  had  taken  from  his  house ;  and  he  was  not 
without  hope  that  it  might  have  been  delivered  to  his  family. 
The  prince  of  Persia  had  a  mother,  who  inherited  his  vast 
wealth,  and  he  was  willing  to  believe  that  she  would  reward 
his  attachment  to  her  son.  On  these  considerations,  he  re- 
vealed to  his  host  the  rank  of  the  deceased,  and  engaged  him 
to  deposit  the  body  for  a  short  time  in  a  neighboring  mosque ; 
and,  after  staying  a  few  months  at  Anbar,  he  ventured  to  return 
to  Bagdad. 

As  he  entered  the  city  in  the  evening,  he  saw  a  woman  in 
deep  mourning,  whose  form  reminded  him  of  Fatima.  He 
followed  her  some  time,  till  she  entered  a  stately  mausoleum, 
^ately  built.  Perceiving  no  one  near,  he  called  to  her,  on 
which  she  turned  round,  and  he  saw  it  was  the  favorite  of 
S?hemselnihar.  She  knew  him  also  immediately,  and  made 
signs  for  him  to  enter  the  building  quickly,  when  she  reUted 
to  him  the  fate  of  her  mistress. 


196  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

*  When  the  treacherous  slave/'  said  she,  "  discovered  to  th« 
caliph  what  had  passed  between  Aboulhassen  and  Schemsehn 
bar,  the  Commander  of  the  Faithful  ordered  her  to  appear 
before  him.  It  was  at  that  time,  when,  terrified  for  the  fate 
of  her  beloved  prince  more  than  for  her  own,  she  sent  me  to 
you  to  apprize  you  of  the  danger.  You  will  suppose  the  caliph 
indulged  the  highest  transports  of  rage  and  jealousy ;  but  he 
did  quite  the  contrary.  He  received  her  with  tenderness  ; 
made  her  sit  down  by  him,  and  then  gently  questioned  her 
respecting  the  prince  of  Persia.  Schemselnihar  had  neither 
spirits  nor  inclination  to  conceal  the  truth ;  on  which  the  caliph 
said,  *I  alone  am  to  blame  in  this  affair;  I  ought  to  have 
considered  that,  in  marriage,  age  and  youth  agree  but  ill  to- 
gether. I  love  you,  Schemselnihar/  continued  the  generoup 
prince,  *  and  ever  shall ;  but  in  future  it  shall  be  like  the  love 
of  a  father,  not  a  husband.  I  will  myself  give  you  to  Aboul- 
hassen :  send  him  word  of  the  good  fortune  that  awaits  him.' 

The  princess,  who  had  been  so  long  torn  with  contending 
passions,  and  spent  with  the  fatigue  of  her  late  unfortunate 
excursion,  and  who  at  this  moment  expected  a  very  different 
,ientence,  could  not  support  the  conflict  in  her  bosom.  She 
sunk  into  the  arms  of  the  caliph  and  expired. 

The  Commander  of  the  Faithful  was  much  afflicted  at  her 
death.  He  caused  her  body  to  be  deposited  in  this  noble 
tomb,  with  great  ceremony,  and  has  honored  me  with  the  charge 
of  it,  allowing  me  a  handsome  pension  for  my  support.  I  ought 
also  to  tell  you  that  he  commanded  Ebn  Thaher  to  return  to 
Bagdad,  and  hath  approved  of  his  conduct  in  this  delicate 
business." 

Fatima,  having  finished  her  narrative,  was  informed  by  the 
jc  weller  of  the  death  of  Aboulhassen ;  and  they  joined  to  pay 
the  tribute  of  tears  to  the  memory  of  these  unfortunate  lovers. 
In  the  morning  Fatima  waited  on  the  caliph,  and  obtained  his 
,ermission  to  inter  the  body  of  the  prince  of  Persia  in  the 
*ame  tomb  with  his  beloved  mistress.  The  mercenary  jewellei 
was  the  only  victim  of  the  caliph's  displeasure,  who  was  sc 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  19  J 

lispleased  with  his  conduct,  that  he  confiscated  the  remainder 
jf  his  effects,  and  banished  him  his  dominions 


The  History  of  Camaralzaman,  Prince  of  Khaledan,  and 
Badoura,  Princess  of  China. 


SCHAHZAMAN,  king  of  Khaledan,  used  the  liberty  the  iu 
af  Mohammed  allow  to  all  good  Mussulmen.  He  Lad  four  wives 
and  sixty  concubines.  The  mos*  "'eautiful  women  in  tk  \  east 
were  to  be  found  in  his  harem;  notwithstanding  which  he  .*oo 
tinued  childless,  and  lost  all  relish  for  the  -grandeur  and  ple&i 
ures  of  a  crown,  for  want  of  an  heir  to  succeed  him  \n  wear- 
ing it. 

At  length,  when  all  hope  of  such  a  blessing  was  nearly 
over,  and  the  king  began  to  find  old  age  approaching,  one  oi 
his  wives  became  pregnant,  and  in  due  time  brought  him  a 
son,  so  beautiful,  that  he  was  named  Camaralzaman,  or  the 
moon  of  the  age. 

As  the  prince  grew  up,  he  displayed  great  talento,  and,  by 
the  king's  command,  was  early  permitted  to  take  hi*  seat  in 
^ouncil,  where  he  conducted  himself  so  ably  as  to  engage  the 
esteem  of  all  the  emirs,  and  give  great  pleasure  to  his  royal 
father.  That  prince  began  now  to  entertain  a  hope  of  seeing 
his  descendants  in  the  next  degree;  for  which  purpose,  as 
soon  as  his  son  became  of  a  suitable  age,  he  much  pressed 
him  to  marry. 

Camaralzaman  had  about  him  something  more  than  iiidiffer 
ence  for  women  ;  he  heard,  therefore,  this  desire  of  his  father 
with  great  concern.  He  put  it  off  at  first  by  pleading  youth, 
and  desiring  time.  After  waiting  a  whole  year,  Schahzaman, 
finding  no  disposition  in  his  son  to  obey  him,  desired  the  mothei 
of  the  prince  to  reason  with  him  on  the  subject.  Camaralza- 
man  had  ever  behaved  witk  the  u;most  duty  and  affection  to 
Uer,  and  the  king  hoped  much  from  her  influence  over  him  to 
procure  a  willing  obedience  to  his  commands. 

The  voyal  mother  undertook  the  affair  with  great  zeal.     Sh« 


198  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

reasoned  the  matter  over  with  the  prince  many  tfines,  and  IB 
various  modes.  She  urged  his  duty  to  his  father,  to  his  future 
subjects,  and  to  posterity ;  she  described  the  happiness  of  con- 
jugal amity,  the  delights  of  paternal  love.  The  prince  heard 
her  with  an  indifference  bordering  on  impatience,  and  con- 
tinued firm  in  his  resolution  to  remain  unmarried. 

Another  year  glided  away,  and  Schahzaman  found  his  son 
still  averse  to  his  wishes.  He  determined,  therefore,  to  make 
the  young  man  pay  that  obedience  to  the  king  which  he  with 
held  from  the  father.  Without  the  least  previous  notice,  he 
took  the  opportunity  of  a  general  meeting  of  the  emirs,  officers 
of  the  army,  and  other  great  men,  and  publicly,  before  them 
all,  laid  his  commands  on  the  prince  to  choose  his  wife,  declar- 
ing it  was  not  safe  to  the  State  that  he  should  live  single  any 
longer.  Every  one  present  concurred  with  the  king  in  his 
opinion.  Camaralzaman,  surprised  and  enraged,  forgot  all 
duty,  gave  way  to  his  natural  impetuosity,  and  replied  to  his 
father  with  so  much  heat  and  acrimony,  that  the  king  found 
himself  at  once  disobeyed  and  affronted:  in  full  council  he 
ordered  his  son,  therefore,  to  be  immediately  taken  away  to 
prison. 

In  the  tower,  where  the  prince  was  confined,  there  was  a 
well  which  was  the  retreat  of  a  fairy  named  Maimoune.  At 
midnight,  when  she  came  forth  to  wander  about  the  world, 
after  her  wonted  custom,  she  saw  a  light  in  Camaralzaman's 
chamber ;  she  entered  it,  and,  the  prince  being  fast  asleep,  she 
admired  the  beauty  of  his  person  for  some  time ;  after  which 
she  took  her  flight  into  the  middle  region  of  the  air. 

Maimoune  soon  after  met  a  genie,  named  Danhasch;  he 
was  one  of  those  genii  who  rebelled  against  God.  The  great 
Bolomon  had  obliged  Maimoune  to  conform. 

The  genie  would  gladly  have  avoided  her,  as  he  was  sensi- 
ble how  much  power  she  had  over  him,  by  her  submission  to 
the  Almighty ;  but  as  they  were  unawares  very  near,  he  ap- 
proached her  in  the  manner  of  a  supplicant,  saying,  "  Brave 
Uaimoune,  swear  to  me  in  the  name  of  the  great  Power  tha? 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  19? 

t  i)u  wilt  not  hurt  me,  and  I  will  also  swear,  on  my  part,  that 
1  tfili  not  do  thee  any  harm." 

"  Cursed  genie,"  replied  the  fairy,  "  what  hurt  canst  thou  do 
me  ?  I  fear  thee  not.  But  as  thou  hast  desired  this  favor  of 
me,  I  will  swear  not  to  hurt  thee.  Tell  me  then,  wandering 
spirit,  whence  coinest  thou  ?  what  hast  thou  seen  ?  and  what 
mischief  hast  thou  done  this  night  ?  "  "  You  meet  me  in  tini3 
to  hear  something  that  is  wonderful,"  said  Danhasch,  (who 
trembled  at  the  sight  of  the  fairy,)  "  but  charming  Maimoune, 
promise  me  that  you  will  let  me  go  on  in  my  way  when  I 
have  satisfied  your  demands." 

"  Go  on,  go  on,  cursed  spirit,"  replied  the  fairy,  "  fear  noth- 
ing ;  dost  thou  think  I  am  as  perfidious,  an  elf  as*  thyself,  to 
break  a  solemn  oath  ?  but  be  sure  you  tell  me  nothing  but 
the  truth,  or  I  shall  certainly  clip  your  wings." 

Danhasch  proceeded  to  acquaint  the  fairy  that  he  had  just 
come  from  China,  the  king  of  which  had  an  only  daughter, 
whose  beauty  the  genie  spoke  of  in  the  most  ardent  terms. 
He  added  a  story  of  her,  the  very  counterpart  of  that  of 
Camaralzaman,  "  that  her  father  was  exceedingly  desirous  she 
should  marry ;  that  she  had  constantly  rejected  every  suitor ; 
and  that  at  last  the  king  of  China,  enraged  at  her  obstinacy, 
had  shut  her  up  in  prison,  though  doatingly  fond  of  her."  He 
concluded,  with  repeatyig  the  most  lavish  applause  of  her 
beauty,  which  he  said  excelled  any  of  the  race  of  mortals. 

Instead  of  answering  the  genie,  Maimoune  burst  into  a  vio- 
lent fit  of  laughter.  "  I  have  just  left,"  said  she,  "  a  prince,  in 
circumstances  nearly  the  same ;  but  in  beauty,  I  have  no  doubt, 
much  superior  to  your  princess."  "  Tis  impossible,"  replied 
Danhasch."  "  Peace,  false  spirit,"  replied  the  fairy ;  "  you 
only  wish  to  send  me  a  long  way  on  a  fruitless  errand.  I  am 
convinced  no  mortal  can  excel  the  charming  youth  I  have  just 
left." 

Danhasch  was  piqued  at  this.  "If  you  will  permit  me, 
agreeable  Maimoune,"  said  he, "  I  will  immediately  convey  mj 
process  to  the  chamber  your  prince  is  in ;  we  may  then  com 


&00  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

pare  them  at  our  leisure,  and  decide  oui  dispute."     "Agreed,* 
replied  the  fairy,  "  provided  you  swear  to  return  the  lady  safie 
to  the  place  you  bring  her  from."     The  genie  swore  to  do  this 
and  Maimoune  having  told  him  where  Camaralzaman  slept 
went  thither  and  waited  his  arrival  with  the  princess. 

Danhasch  was  not  long  in  performing  this  business ;  he 
introduced  the  princess,  still  asleep,  and  laid  her  by  the  side  of 
Camaralzaman.  The  fairy  and  the  genie  then  compared  them 
together,  and  each  claimed  the  victory.  Maimoune,  vexed  at 
the  contest,  stamped  her  foot  on  the  floor,  which  opened, 
and  there  appeared  a  hideous  genie,  with  six  horns  on  his 
head,  and  claws  on  his  hands  and  feet.  "  Cascheasch,"  said 
Maimoune,  "  I  called  you  here  to  determine  between  me  and 
that  vile  genie ;  which  is  the  most  handsome  of  these  twc 
mortals  ?  View  them  well,  and  determine  impartially." 

Cascheasch  surveyed  them  both  with  great  attention  and 
admiration.  After  awhile  he  said  to  the  fairy,  "  it  is  impos- 
sible to  determine  your  dispute,  unless  you  cause  them  to 
awake  in  turn.  I  shall  then  be  able,  by  observing  their 
vivacity  and  graceful  carriage,  to  decide  your  contest." 

Maimoune  consented,  and  changing  herself  into  a  flea,  she 
stung  the  prince  so  sharply  in  the  neck,  that  he  awoke.  She 
then  resumed  her  own  form,  and  joined  the  genii,  continuing 
as  they  were,  invisible. 

When  Camaralzaman  opened  his  eyes,  he  was  astonished  to 
find  by  him  a  lady  of  such  exquisite  loveliness.  He  raised 
himself  on  his  elbow,  and  gazed  upon  her  with  the  most  per- 
feet  admiration.  Her  blooming  youth,  her  incomparable 
beauty,  seized  his  heart  in  a  moment ;  and  he  felt  at  once  the 
full  power  of  love,  which  he  had  before  so  rigorously  resisted 

He  saluted  her  with  the  utmost  fervor,  and  earnestly 
endeavored  to  awaken  her.  At  length,  finding  she  continued 
in  a  deep  sleep,  and  that  an  unusual  drowsiness  came  over  him- 
§elf,  he  took  a  ring  from  her  finger,  and  put  one  of  his  own  I'D 
its  place.  He  had  scarcely  done  this,  when  a  profound  sleep 
wercame  him 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  2lT 

The  enchantments  of  the  fairy  produced  this  sleep  in  *he 
prince  and  in  Badoura,  (which  was  the  name  of  the  princess) 
Danhasch  now  became  a  flea,  and  stung  Badoura  so  severely 
on  the  lip,  that  she  presently  awoke.  She  was  amazed,  in  hei 
turn,  to  find  a  young  man  lying  by  her ;  and  observing  how 
handsome  he  was,  her  wonder  became  admiration.  "  Is  it 
you,"  said  she  "  that  the  king,  my  father,  has  destined  for  my 
husband  ?  Ah !  if  he  had  introduced  you  to  me,  I  should 
never  have  incensed  him  by  an  obstinate  refusal."  The  prin- 
cess had  too  much  modesty  to  awaken  her  supposed  husband^ 
but  she  gazed  at  him  with  much  pleasure.  At  length  she  per 
ceived  he  had  exchanged  rings  with  her.  She  doubted  not 
but  this  was  a  token  of  theu'  marriage,  though  she  could  not 
recollect  the  particulars  of  it.  While  she  thought  on  these 
matters,  her  senses  were  at  once  locked  up  in  sleep.  Mai- 
moune,  without  waiting  for  the  decision  of  Cascheasch,  triumph- 
ed over  Danhasch  on  the  superior  beauty  of  the  prince.  She 
then  commanded  the  genii  to  convey  the  princess  back  again 
to  her  bed.  They  obeyed  ;  and  morning  being  near,  the  fairj 
retired  to  her  well. 

When  the  prince  awoke,  he  looked  about  for  the  lady 
whose  charms  had  taken  possession  of  his  heart.  Finding  she 
was  not  with  him  he  arose,  and  having  washed  and  said 
his  prayers,  he  sat  down  to  meditate  on  what  had  passed.  He 
concluded  that  the  lady  was  conveyed  to  his  bed  by  command 
of  the  king ;  he,  doubting  not,  therefore,  but  that  she  was 
intended  for  his  bride.  He  inquired  of  his  slave  who  she-  was, 
and  who  had  brought  her  to  his  chamber  ?  To  these  questions 
the  slave  replied,  by  positively  denying  that  any  lady  was  in- 
traduced  into  his  apartment.  "  How,"  said  the  prince,  "  do 
you  dare  tell  me  there  was  no  lady  with  me  ? "  *'  I  am 
sure,"  replied  the  slave,  bluntly,  "  it  is  impossible,  unless  she 
passed  through  the  walls,  for  I  lay  at  the  door." 

Oamaralzaman  was  incensed  at  this  presumption  of  his 
slave,  and  caned  him  severely.  The  slave  fled  from  him  and 
ran  to  the  vizier,  declaring  that  his  master  was  mad ;  relating 


%J~  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

RS  a  proof,  h<  w  he  had  punished  him,  and  for  what  ca  Jise.  Thf 
vizier,  alarmed  at  this  account,  hastened  to  the  prince,  whom 
he  found  reading  with  great  composure.  On  his  entrance, 
Camaralzaman  laid  aside  his  book,  and  conversed  so  rationally, 
that  the  minister  became  enraged  with  the  slave  for  giving  him 
10  causeless  an  alarm ;  and  was  meditating  punishment  for 
him,  when  the  prince,  with  much  earnestness,  inquired  who 
the  lady  was  who  had  been  conveyed  to  his  bed  the  preceding 
night. 

The  minister  was  thunderstruck  at  this  demand.  He  hesi 
tatingly  endeavored  to  evade  the  question,  which  the  prince 
observing,  repeated  in  a  stern  and  angry  manner.  Thus 
pushed,  the  vizier  declared  he  knew  of  no  lady  who  had  been 
admitted  to  him ;  he  even  argued  the  impossibility  of  such  a 
circumstance  having  happened ;  and  concluded,  with  persuad- 
ing the  prince  it  must  have  been  a  dream,  which  had  taken 
such  full  possession  of  his  imagination. 

Camaralzaman  became  frantic  with  anger  at  this  declara- 
tion. He  was  satisfied  in  his  own  mind  that  a  trick  had  been 
played  him ;  he  doubted  not  but  the  vizier  was  the  contriver 
of  it.  With  these  ideas,  neither  respect  for  the  age  or  office 
of  the  minister  had  any  weight  with  the  enraged  prince ;  he 
caned  him  with  as  much  severity  as  he  had  his  own  slave 
The  vizier,  in  his  turn,  was  glad  to  escape,  and  going  to  Schab 
zaman,  he  related  to  him  the  situation  of  the  prince. 

The  king,  though  angry  with  the  young  man,  had  still  the 
tenderest  affection  for  him ;  he  received,  therefore,  his  vizier's 
account  with  great  concern.  He  immediately  paid  his  son  a 
visit,  who  received  him  very  dutifully,  pressing  him  earnestly 
to  introduce  the  lady  to  him.  "  Whatever  aversion,  sir,"  said 
Le,  "  I  formerly  had  to  women,  this  young  lady  has  charmed 
tne  to  such  a  degree,  that  I  am  ready  to  receive  her  as  the 
best  gift  you  can  bestow  on  me." 

The   king  was   much   afflicted   at  this   conversation.     Ho 
assu-ed  him.  in  the  most  solemn  mariner,  that  no  lady  had 
introduced  to  him,  by  his  order ;  nor  was  it  probable  anj 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  203 

one  could  have  been  there  at  all.  He  therefore,  conjured  him 
fo  think  rightly  of  the  matter,  and  believe  it  to  be,  as  it  cer 
tainly  was,  a  dream,  and  nothing  else. 

Camaralzaman  heard  his  father  with  the  most  respectful 
attention ;  when  he  had  finished  his  discourse,  the  prince  held 
out  his  hand  and  said,  "  you  know,  sir,  the  ring  I  usually  wore, 
which  was  your  majesty's  paternal  gift.  You  see  I  have  it  not  •, 
but  on  my  finger  is  a  woman's  ring,  which  I  took  from  the 
lovely  creature  I  found  by  my  side,  and  gave  her  mine  in 
the  room  of  it ;  could  this  be  a  drea1™  9  " 

The  sight  of  the  ring  convinced  Sehahzaman.  "Alas  I  my 
son,"  said  he,  "  how  should  I  rejoice  if  I  could  set  before  you 
the  lady,  I  have  now  no  doubt  you  have  seen!  some  superior 
power  has  brought  her  to  you,  and  you  must  wait  with 
patience  till  she  is  restored  to  you  again.  Come  now  with  me, 
and  resume  your  place  in  my  council.  I  pardon  your  past 
obstinacy,  and  will  no  more  urge  you  to  marry." 

The  consequences  of  this  interference  of  the  genii,  was 
still  more  serious  in  China.  When  the  princess  awoke  in  the 
morning,  she  inquired  of  her  attendants  who  the  young  man 
was,  who  had  been  admitted  into  her  apartments ;  she  persisted 
in  this  demand,  though  they  all  declared  no  such  circumstance 
(jould  possibly  have  taken  place ;  and  as  she  obstinately  main- 
tained the  truth  of  her  assertion,  and  avowed  herself  ready  to 
receive  him  as  her  husband,  although  she  had  ever  before 
been  so  averse  to  marriage,  the  king,  her  father,  concluded 
her  intellects  were  deranged.  He  ordered  her  to  be  more 
closely  confined  ;  and  issued  a  proclamation,  stating  her  case, 
and  offering  her  hand  in  marriage  to  any  one  who  was  able  to 
cure  her. 

The  hope  of  obtaining  so  beautiful  a  princess,  and  with  her 
the  succession  to  a  powerful  kingdom,  caused  a  great  number 
of  learned  men  to  offer  their  services.  The  king,  to  check 
this  multiplicity  of  applications,  thought  fit  to  add  another  COD* 
dition  to  the  undertaking;  which  was,  that  whoever  should 
Attempt  the  cure  and  f**l  in  completing  it,  shculd  forfeit  bif 


204  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

bead.  Much  the  greater  part  of  those  who  had  applied,  &e 
ceded  from  so  dangerous  an  experiment ;  yet  there  remained 
many  who,  depending  on  their  skill,  or  misled  by  their  vanity 
resolved  to  attempt  it. 

These  drew  lots  to  decide  who  should  first  be  admitted  to 
the  princess.  The  chance  fell  to  an  emir  of  the  court,  whose 
skill  in  physic  and  the  occult  sciences  was  unquestionable. 
The  king  himself  condescended  to  introduce  him.  As  soon  as 
the  princess  saw  them  enter  her  apartment,  she  dropt  her  veil, 
tind  complained  to  her  father  that  he  had  brought  with  him  a 
strange  man,  when  her  religion  forbade  her  to  be  seen  by  such 
a  one.  The  king  apologized ;  and  told  her  it  was  one  of  the 
emirs  who  had  demanded  her  in  marriage.  "It  is  not,  J 
see,"  replied  the  princess,  "  him  to  whom  you  have  already 
given  me ;  and  your  majesty  may  be  assured  I  will  never  marry 
*ny  other." 

The  emir,  who  expected  the  princess  would  have  broke  out 
into  some  frantic  excess,  was  confounded  when  he  heard  her 
talk  so  rationally ;  and  still  more  when  he  found  her  disorder 
irose  from  a  disappointment  in  love.  He  threw  himself  at 
the  king's  feet  and  said,  "  You,  sir,  must  be  the  physician  in 
this  case,  by  giving  the  princess  to  the  man  she  honors  with 
her  affection.  The  application  of  art  or  science  can  avail  noth- 
ing towards  curing  a  disorder  which  arises  from  that  passion 
which  subdues  all  things." 

The  emir  was  led  out ;  and  the  king,  enraged  at  his  pre- 
Buinption  and  at  his  own  disappointment,  caused  his  head  to 
be  struck  off,  and  fixed  upon  a  pole  at  the  principal  gate  of 
the  city.  The  severity  of  this  example  did  not  deter  others. 
Many  were  led  by  the  greatness  of  the  prize  to  attempt  restor 
ing  the  princess,  and,  in  a  short  time,  more  than  fiftj  heads 
were  placed  by  that  of  the  emir. 

The  princess  of  China's  nurse  had  a  son  whose  name  was 
Marzavan.  He  had  been  foster-brother  to  the  princess ;  they 
*ere  bred  up  together,  and  had  a  great  affection  for  each 
Uher.  When  Marzavan  became  a  young  man,  having  a  studi 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  20<l 

tws  turn,  ne  applied  himself  with  success  to  judicial  astrology, 
geomacy,  and  other  secret  arts.  And  to  complete  his  educa- 
tion, he  travelled  for  some  years,  visiting  men  of  knowledge, 
and  improving  himself  by  their  communications. 

Marzavan  was  surprised  on  his  return  home  to  see  so  many 
heads  at  the  entrance  of  the  city.  After  he  had  received  and 
returned  the  caresses  of  his  mother,  he  inquired  of  her  the  cause 
of  that  melancholy  spectacle.  The  good  old  lady  told  him  the 
story  of  those  unfortunate  men,  which  of  course  led  her  to 
relate  that  of  the  princess,  whcse  unhappy  situation  she  de- 
scribed very  feelingly. 

Marzavan  had  great  affection  for  Badoura;  he  was  not 
without  ambition ;  and  had  the  greatest  reason  to  rely  upon 
his  own  talents.  He  began  to  hope  the  cure  of  the  princess 
was  reserved  for  him,  and  resolved  to  offer  himself  for  the 
dangerous  office.  He  communicated  his  intention  to  his  mother, 
who  was  exceedingly  alarmed  at  it.  She  besought  him,  with 
many  tears,  not  to  expose  himself  to  certain  death;  and  enu« 
merated  the  many  people  of  abilities  who  had  fallen  a  sacrifice 
to  their  own  indiscretion  in  risking  the  fatal  experiment. 

Finding  he  was  not  to  be  overruled,  she  insisted  he  should 
delay  his  intention  till  the  next  day.  Marzavan  consented. 
She  returned  immediately  into  the  palace,  and  told  the  prin- 
cess that  her  son  had  just  returned  from  his  travels,  and  longud 
exceedingly  to  have  the  honor  of  approaching  her.  Badoura 
retained  a  high  regard  for  her  foster-brother.  She  readily 
consented  to  see  him ;  but,  as  it  was  necessary  to  keep  so  irreg- 
ular a  visit  secret,  it  was  resolved  to  dress  him  in  woman's 
clothes  and  introduce  him  at  midnight. 

Marzavan  had  now  an  opportunity  of  trying  his  abilities  in 
safety.  He  prepared  fumigations,  and  took  with  him  proper 
books,  to  disposses  the  evil  spirit  that  he  suppossed  had  seized 
the  princess.  Badoura  received  him  with  the  greatest  joy 
and  sisterly  affection.  After  the  first  compliments,  Marzavan 
began  what  he  thought  a  proper  process,  which  the  princess 
wrceiviug,  cried  out,  u  what  my  brother!  do  you  also  believe 


206  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

that  I  am  mad?  undecehe  yourself,  and  hearken  to  what  1 
shall  relate  to  you." 

Badoura  repeated  her  story  to  her  foster-brother,  and  show- 
ed him  the  ring  she  had  received  in  exchange  for  her  own, 
Marzavan  was  filled  with  astonishment ;  he  entreated  the  prin- 
cess would  support  her  spirits,  while  he  went  in  search  of  the 
object  of  her  affections.  Badoura  was  pleased  with  his  zeal, 
though  she  had  little  hope  of  any  good  effect  from  it;  and 
when  he  took  his  leave,  dismissed  him  with  great  kindness. 

Though  Marzavan's  chimerical  hopes  were  frustrated,  he 
rejoiced  that  he  had  made  his  experiment  so  cheaply.  He 
was  still  actuated  by  a  fraternal  regard  for  the  princess :  under 
that  influence  he  set  out  and  travelled  from  province  to  pro- 
vince in  search  of  her  unknown  lover.  For  many  days  he 
heard  in  every  place  the  discourse  of  the  people  respecting 
the  princess  Badoura  and  her  indisposition.  The  further  he 
went  from  the  capital  of  China  the  less  this  was  talked  of,  till 
at  length  he  heard  no  more  of  it.  He  travelled  on  many  days, 
and  at  last  he  heard  people  talk  of  prince  Camaralzaman,  who, 
they  said,  was  very  ill.  He  pursued  the  story,  which,  as  he 
proceeded  onwards,  he  heard  more  distinctly.  The  exact  re- 
semblance there  was  between  the  story  of  this  prince  and  that 
of  Badoura,  left  him  no  doubt  he  was  the  object  of  his  inquiry. 

Marzavan  arrived,  at  length,  at  the  capital  of  Khaledan, 
and  introduced  himself  to  the  grand  vizier  as  a  skilful  physi- 
cian. The  vizier,  finding  from  his  conversation  that  he  was 
a  man  of  ability,  related  to  him  the  story  of  Camaralzaman, 
and  ended  with  telling  him  that  a  fixed  melancholy  had  taken 
possession  of  the  prince  ever  since,  by  which  his  health  was 
much  affected.  He  entreated  Marzavan  to  pay  the  young  man 
a  visit,  and  try  if  it  was  in  the  power  of  his  skill  to  afford  him 
assistance. 

Marzavan  eagerly  embraced  the  proposal,  and  being  intro 
duced  to  the  prince,  found  him  lying  on  the  bed,  his  eyed 
closed,  and  entirely  careless  even  of  his  father's  attention 
uruo  devoted  every  moment  he  could  spare  from  public  busi 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  201 

ness  to  the  consolation  of  his  son.  Marzavan  was  s  truck  with 
the  resemblance  between  the  lovers,  and  involuntarily  explain 
ed,  "  Heavens !  what  a  likeness  !"  This  expression  engaged 
the  notice  of  the  prince,  who  raised  himself  up,  and  surveyed 
the  stranger  with  great  attention.  Marzavan  paid  his  com- 
pliments to  the  prince  in  extempore  verse,  in  which  he  glanced 
at  his  adventure  in  such  delicate  hints,  that  though  Camaral- 
saman  readily  understood  he  could  give  him  information  of 
the  lady,  neither  the  king  nor  his  minister  observed  anything 
more  than  a  handsome  compliment. 

At  the  desire  of  Camaralzaman  he  conversed  with  the 
stranger  alone.  Marzaman  declined  to  relate  to  the  prince,  in 
his  present  weak  state,  all  the  particulars  he  was  acquainted 
with.  He  only  told  him,  generally,  that  he  knew  the  lady  for 
whom  his  highness  languished;  that  she  retained  the  same 
affection  for  him ;  and  promised  that,  when  his  health  was  re- 
stored, he  would  give  him  every  information  he  could  desire. 
From  this  time  Camaralzaman  entirely  lost  his  melancholy ; 
he  mended  daily.  The  king  loaded  Marzavan  with  honors 
and  rewards,  and  ordered  public  rejoicings  all  over  the  king- 
dom for  his  son's  recovery. 

The  prince  failed  not  to  claim  from  Marzavan  the  intelli- 
gence he  had  promised.  '  He  readily  informed  him  of  the  pre- 
sent situation  of  Badoura,  and  called  upon  him,  by  every  tie 
of  love  and  honor,  to  hasten  to  relieve  a  princess  who  had 
Buffered  so  much  for  him. 

The  prince  of  Khaledan  was  too  sincerely  attached  to  hia 
beloved  unknown  to  need  solicitation  on  this  occasion.  But 
as  he  was  sensible  the  king  would  never  permit  him  to  under- 
take so  longxa  journey,  he  thought  some  management  was 
necessary.  Accordingly,  when  his  health  was  quite  reestab- 
lished, he  expressed  a  desire  to  hunt  in  a  large  forest  near 
the  confines  of  the  kingdom.  Having  obtained  Schahzaman's 
consent,  and  continued  the  sport  for  a  week,  the  prince  with- 
drew from  his  train  one  night  accompanied  only  by  Marzavan 
wid  a  gr  x>m.  Before  morning  they  had  got  beycnd  his  father*? 


208  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

territories;  when  he  sent  the  servant  back  with  an  account 
where  he  was  gone,  and  on  what  occasion.  They  then  set  off 
foi  the  capital  of  China,  where,  after  travelling  near  twelve 
months,  they  arrived  in  perfect  safety. 

When  they  reached  the  city  they  found  the  mother  of  Mar- 
eavan  was  dead ;  all  access,  therefore,  to  the  princess  was  cut 
off,  except  by  public  application  to  cure  her.  It  now  had 
been  a  long  time  since  any  one  had  been  hardy  enough  to 
attempt  so  desperate  an  undertaking;  and  the  people  were 
astonished  when  Camaralzaman,  in  the  habit  of  an  astrologer 
appeared  before  the  gate  of  the  palace,  and  demanded  admis- 
sion to  cure  the  princess,  under  the  usual  penalty.  The  by- 
standers conjured  him  to  forego  so  rash  an  attempt ;  but  he 
continued  resolute,  and  repeating  his  demand  in  so  firm  and 
manly  a  manner,  as  made  the  people  pity  and  tremble  for  him. 
On  his  being  introduced  to  the  king  of  China,  his  graceful 
Appearance,  noble  aspect,  and  blooming  youth,  affected  that 
prince ;  and  as  he  had  long  considered  the  case  of  his  daughter 
as  desperate,  he  could  not,  without  concern,  see  so  fine  a  young 
man  devote  himself  to  destruction.  His  majesty  condescend- 
ed to  expostulate  with  the  supposed  astrologer :  "  You  have/' 
said  the  king,  "  scarcely  obtained  sufficient  experience  to  be 
equal  to  an  undertaking  which  has*  baffled  abilities  of  many 
very  learned  men.  Let  me  then  advise  you  to  desist,  since, 
if  you  attempt  and  fail,  nothing  on  earth  can  save  your  life." 

Camaralzaman  answered  the  king  with  modesty  and  grati- 
tude, and,  at  the  same  time,  expressed  so  much  confidence  of 
success,  that  his  majesty  sent  immediately  for  the  chief  eunucn, 
and  ordered  him  to  conduct  the  stranger  to  the  princess.  As 
they  passed  through  a  long  gallery  the  prince,  through  impa- 
tience, walked  before  the  old  Slave,  who  was  obliged  to  hasten 
to  overtake  him.  u  You  are  in  a  strange  hurry,"  said  the 
eunuch,  "  to  get  to  an  apartment  from  whence,  I  fear,  you  witt 
think  you  return  too  soon.  I  have  attended  many  on  thia 
errand,  and  always  found  before,  that  they  approached  with 
*Dor3hension."  "  That,"  replied  the  prince,  "  was  a  proof  of 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  20> 

their  inability.  But,  good  eunuch,  to  convince  you  that  I  am 
no  vain  boaster,  supply  me  only  with  pen,  ink,  and  paper,  and 
I  will  undertake  to  cure  the  princess  without  being  introduced 
to  her." 

The  amazed  eunuch  did  so,  and  Camaralzaman  wrote  a 
tender  billet  to  the  princess,  and  enclosed  in  it  the  ring  he 
had  taken  from  her  finger.  Badoura  received  the  note  from 
the  eunuch  with  great  indifference  when  he  told  her  it  cams 
from  an  astrologer  who  had  undertaken  to  cure  her ;  but  the 
instant  she  saw  her  own  ring,  she  had  scarce  patience  to  read 
it,  she  demanded  to  be  led  immediately  to  the  person  who 
wrote  it.  The  eunuch  accordingly  conducted  her  to  the  room 
where  he  had  left  the  prince,  who  had  thrown  aside  the  astrol- 
oger's habit,  and  waited  to  receive  her  with  the  most  anxious 
impatience.  They  knew  each  other  the  instant  they  met. 
Camaralzaman  flew  to  the  arms  of  the  princess ;  and  the  man- 
ner in  which  she  received  him,  convinced  her  attendants  that 
her  wire  was  perfected. 

The  eunuch  hastened  to  the  king  with  the  welcome  tidings. 
That  monarch  could  scarcely  credit  his  report.  He  went 
directly  to  his  daughter's  apartments,  and  embraced  her ;  after 
which  he  presented  her  hand  to  Camaralzaman,  and  gave 
orders  for  the  marriage  to  be  immediately  solemnized. 

The  king  of  China  was  highly  pleased  when  he  found  hia 
new  son-in-law  was  a  prince.  He  heard  from  him,  with  fresh 
wonder,  the  manner  in  which  he  became  contracted  to  the 
princess,  having  ever  considered  Badoura's  account  of  it  as  a 
proof  of  her  disorder.  The  rejoicings  on  the  recovery  and 
marriage  of  the  princess  were  universal. 

For  a  whole  year  Camaralzaman  gave  himself  up  to  the 
delights  of  his  new  situation.  In  the  midst  of  these  enjoy- 
ments he  dreamt,  one  night,  that  he  saw  Schahzaman,  hie 
father,  on  his  death-bed ;  and  heard  him  say  to  his  attendants, 
*  My  son,  whom  I  so  tenderly  loved ;  my  son,  whom  I  bred 
with  so  much  affection,  so  much  care,  hath  abandoned  me] 
18* 


210  AKAPIAN  NIGHTS' 


and  is  himself,  by  that  means,  the  cause  of  my  death  *  —  !M 
awoke  in  great  distress. 

In  the  morning  he  related  hia  dream  to  the  princesa 
Badoura,  and  they  agreed  to  request  the  king  of  China  that 
he  would  permit  them  to  take  a  journey  to  see  Schahzaman. 
Though  the  request  was  too  reasonable  to  be  refused,  yet  the 
king  of  China  parted  from  them  reluctantly  ;  and  on  condition 
that  they  should  stay  no  longer  than  a  year  in  Schahzaman'i 
sourt.  and  then  return  to  him  again. 

They  set  out  with  a  small  retinue,  after  having  taken  a  ten- 
der farewell  of  the  king  of  China  ;  and  travelled  for  a  month, 
making  easy  journies  through  a  delightful  country.  One  day 
the  weather  being  very  hot,  Camaralzaman  ordered  the  tents 
to  be  pitched,  during  the  heat  of  the  day,  in  a  grove  of  tall  trees, 
The  princess  being  weary,  retired  to  her  tent,  and  bade  her 
women  to  untie  her  girdle,  which  they  laid  down  by  her,  and 
she,  falling  asleep,  her  attendants  left  her. 

The  prince,  when  everything  was  properly  disposed  of,  came 
to  the  tent  where  the  princess  was  asleep.  As  he  entered,  he 
observed  her  girdle,  which  he  took  up  and  examined  ;  in  the 
middle  of  it  he  found  a  little  purse  which  contained  a  corne- 
lian, tied  by  a  red  ribbon,  and  engraven  in  unknown  figures 
and  characters  :  by  a  paper  annexed  to  it  he  learnt,  that  it 
was  a  talisman,  on  which  there  was  a  scheme  of  Badoura's  • 
nativity,  drawn  from  the  constellations  ;  and  that  it  was  lately 
given  her  by  the  queen  of  China,  as  a  charm  that  would  pre- 
serve her  from  ill  fortune  as  long  as  she  had^  it  about  her. 
The  tent  being  too  dark  to  observe  the  engravings  distinctly, 
the  prince  took  it  to  the  door  ;  where,  while  he  was  looking  at 
it,  a  bird  darted  from  the  air,  and  snatched  it  from  him. 

Camaialzaman  was  exceedingly  grieved  when  he  saw  the 
bird  fly  away  with  the  talisman.  He  blamed  severely  his  Idle 
curiosity,  by  which  he  had  lost  a  treasure  so  valued  by  the 
princess.  The  bird  having  got  her  prize,  pitched  upon  the 
fro  md  not  far  off,  with  the  talisman  in  her  mouth  :  tfie  prince 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  21  i 

drew  near,  h  hopes  she  would  drop  it;  but  as  he  approache^ 
she  took  win*  and  pitched  again  further  off.  Camaralzamac 
followed  her,  and  the  bird  having  swallowed  the  talisman,  toot 
a  small  flight  further  still.  The  prince  hoped  to  kill  her  with 
a  stone ;  and  as  she  flew  but  a  little  way  at  a  time,  he  became 
more  and  more  eager  in  pursuing  her.  Thus  the  bird  led  him 
from  hill  to  valley,  and  from  valley  to  hill  all  day ;  and  instead 
of  parching  at  night  on  a  bush,  where  he  might  probably  have 
taken  her,  she  roosted  on  a  high  tree,  safe  from  his  pursuit* 
The  prince,  grieved  at  the  misfortunes  of  the  day,  would  have 
returned  to  his  camp,  but  alas!  he  thought  of  it  too  late. 
Whither  shall  he  go  ?  which  way  return  ?  how  will  he  be  able 
io  trace  back  his  steps  over  mountains  and  valleys  never  trod 
before  ?  Darkness  and  fatigue  alike  prevented  him.  Besides, 
how  durst  he  appear  before  his  princess  without  her  talisman  ? 
Overwhelmed  with  these  distressing  thoughts,  he  sat  down  at 
the  foot  of  a  tree,  and  sleep  gave  him  a  short  respite  from  hia 
affliction. 

He  awoke  the  next  morning  before  the  bird  had  left  the 
tree ;  and,  as  soon  as  he  saw  her  on  the  wing,  followed  her. 
He  continued  to  do  so  the  whole  day,  with  no  better  success 
than  he  had  had  the  day  before,  eating  nothing  but  herbs  and 
fruits,  which  he  picked  as  he  walked.  For  ten  days  he  pur- 
sued the  mischievous  bird,  sleeping  every  night  under  the  tree 
where  she  roosted.  On  the  eleventh  day,  he  drew  near  to  a 
great  city,  and  the  bird  flying  over  the  walls,  he  saw  her  no 
more. 

Camaralzaman  entered  the  city,  overcome  with  grief  and 
despair.  He  wandered  about  for  some  time,  and,  at  last,  came 
to  the  side  of  a  river.  He  proceeded  on  the  banks  of  it,  til] 
he  saw  a  gate  open  which  he  entered,  and  found  a  gardener  at 
work,  who  after  looking  at  him  a  little  while,  called  out  for  him 
to  come  forward,  and  shut  the  door.  The  prince  did  as  he 
was  directed,  and  going  up  to  the  gardener,  asked  him  the 
reason  c  f  his  being  so  cautious.  "  Because/'  replied  the  old 


212  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

man,  a  I  judge  you  are  a  stranger,  and  I  perceive,  by  yout 
dress  that  you,  as  well  as  myself,  are  a  Mussulman.  This  city 
is  inhabited  by  idolaters,  who  have  a  mortal  hatred  to  true 
believers.  It  is  wonderful  how  you  have  escaped  ill  usage,  a& 
you  must  have  come  through  a  considerable  part  of  the  city, 
But  you  seem  weary  ;  come  into  my  house ;  I  will  give  you 
the  best  refreshments  in  my  power ;  and  you  shall  then  tell 
me  if  I  can  do  you  morp  material  service." 

The  prince  thankfully  accepted  the  friendly  offer  he  stood 
go  much  in  need  of.  The  benevolent  gardener  conducted  him 
into  his  little  hut,  clean  though  small,  and  well  defended  from 
the  weather.  He  set  before  him  his  provisions,  and  enter- 
tained him  with  so  much  heartiness,  that  the  prince  was  quite 
charmed ;  and  at  the  request  of  his  host  readily  told  him  who 
he  was,  and  by  what  accident  he  came  there.  He  concluded 
with  saying,  "having  been  eleven  days  separated  from  my 
dear  princess,  I  have  no  chance  of  meeting  with  her  again  on 
her  journey  ;  ray  only  hope  is,  that  she  will  proceed  for  my 
father's  territories ;  and  I  must  beg  of  you  to  inform  me  in 
what  manner  I  can  best  convey  myself  thither  to  meet  her." 

The  gardener  told  him  it  would  be  impossible  for  him  to 
return  home  by  land,  as  his  way  lay  through  so  many  barba- 
rous nations.  "  There  is,**  continued  he,  "  a  ship  sails  from 
this  port  once  a  year  to  the  isle  of  Ebene ;  from  whence  you 
may  easily  convey  yourself  to  Khaledan,  but  that  ship  sailed 
only  a  few  days  ago ;  it  will  of  course  be  near  a  year  before 
you  will  have  that  opportunity.  In  the  meantime,  I  would 
advise  you  to  remain  with  me :  here  you  will  enjoy  perfect 
safety,  and  in  due  time  you  will  join  your  princess,  in  your 
own  country,  with  little  risk  or  inconvenience." 

Camaralzaman,  on  consideration,  embraced  the  gardener's 
friendly  offer.     He  passed  the  days  in  laboring  in  the  garden, 
that  he  might  be  as  little  burdensome  as  possible  to  his  host 
and  the  nights  in  thinking  of  his  dear  Badoura,  and  lamenting 
Ikeir  unfortunate  separation. 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 


of  the  Princess  Badoura,  after  her  separation  from 
Prince  Camaralzaman. 

THE  princess  slept  a  long  while ;  and  when  she  awoke,  she 
missed  the  talisman  from  her  girdle.  She  inquired  for  the 
prince,  not  doubting  but  that  he  had  taken  it  up,  and  expected 
his  return  with  much  impatience. 

When  the  day  closed,  and  the  succeeding  night  had  passed 
away,  and  Camaralzaman  continued  absent,  the  alarm  and 
affliction  of  Badoura  became  very  great ;  but  she  had  too  much 
good  sense  to  indulge  an  unavailing  sorrow,  especially  at  a 
time  when  spirit  and  resolution  were  so  necessary  for  her 
safety.  None  of  the  party,  except  her  own  women,  knew  of 
the  prince's  absence.  Badoura,  when  she  saw  he  did  not 
return  on  the  third  day,  dressed  herself  in  a  suit  of  his  clothes, 
and  going  among  the  body  of  the  attendants,  ordered  them  to 
strike  the  tents  and  pursue  their  route.  The  great  likeness 
between  her  and  Camaralzaman,  made  her  easily  pass  for  him. 
She  ordered  one  of  her  women  to  take  her  seat  in  the  caravan, 
while  she  mounted  on  horseback  and  rode  by  the  side  of  it : 
thus  they  travelled  for  several  months,  till  they  arrived  at  the 
capital  of  Ebene  ;  when  Armanos,  king  of  that  island,  invited 
the  supposed  son  of  his  ally  Schahzaman  to  repose  awhile  in 
his  court,  before  h°  proceeded  to  Khaledan. 

The  princess  Badoura  accepted  the  invitation,  and  was 
received  by  Armanos  with  much  hospitality.  The  king  was 
greatly  pleased  with  the  supposed  Camaralzaman.  He  con- 
trived every  means  of  amusing  him  to  prevent  his  departure ; 
and  at  length  frankly  offered  to  give  him  his  only  daughter, 
Haiatalnefous,  to  wife,  and  to  place  the  crown  of  Ebene  on  hw 
bead,  which  old  age  had  made  too  burdensome  for  his  own. 

Badoura  was  much  perplexed  by  this  offer,  which  sh* 
dreaded  alike  to  accept  or  to  reject.  The  inconveraencea 
attending  her  becoming  the  husband  of  the  princess  of  Ebene 
fcrere  obvious  ;  yet  if  she  refused,  she  had  every  thing  to  appro 


214  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

hend  from  th«  anger  of  the  king  in  whose  power  she  *as 
and  who  no  doubt  would  resei  t  the  indignity.  Nor  durst  sh€ 
discover  her  sex,  as  she  was  unprotected  by  Camaralzaman^ 
uncertain  of  his  fate,  and  at  such  a  distance  from  her  father's 
kingdom.  She  resolved,  therefore,  to  throw  herself  on  the 
generosity  of  the  princess.  She  accepted  the  king's  offer 
with  great  apparent  joy  ;  and  having  given  a  probable  reason 
for  her  conduct  to  such  of  her  attendants  as  thought  her  Cam- 
aralzainan,  and  cautioned  the  few  of  her  women  who  knew 
the  secret  to  be  faithful  and  silent,  she  prepared  herself  to  be 
the  bridegroom  of  Haiatalnefous. 

The  king  summoned  his  council  and  great  m,en,  and,  in 
their  presence,  resigned  his  crown  to  the  supposed  Camaralza- 
man.  The  next  day,  Badoura  was  decorated  in  the  regalia  of 
the  kingdom ;  and  the  marriage  rites  were  celebrated  with 
the  utmost  splendor,  amidst  rejoicings  which  gladdened  every 
heart  except  that  of  the  bridegroom. 

In  the  evening,  when  they  had  retired  together,  Badoura, 
not  without  confusion,  acquainted  the  princess  that  she  was  a 
woman.  She  related,  with  many  tears,  the  story  of  her  mar- 
riage with  Camaralzaman,  and  of  their  unfortunate  separation. 
"  I  durst  not,"  continued  she,  "  refuse  your  father's  offer,  nor 
explain  my  situation  to  him.  I  rely  entirely  on  your  good 
nature  to  keep  my  secret  a  short  time.  If  the  prince  of 
Khaledan  is  living,  it  cannot  be  long  before  he  will  arrive 
here,  on  his  way  home ;  and  should  you  think  him  as  amiable 
Kb  I  do,  I  will  consent  that  he  shall  be  your  husband,  as  well 
as  mine,  which  you  know  is  agreeable  to  the  laws  of  the 
prophet.  If,  on  the  other  hand,  he  is  no  more,  I  shall  continue, 
by  your  kindness,  in  safety  here,  till  I  can  acquaint  my  royal 
father  with  my  situation." 

The  princess  of  Ebene  heard  Badoura's  story  with  wonder 
and  pity.  When  she  had  finished  her  narrative,  Haiatalne- 
fous embraced  her,  saying,  I  do  not  blame  your  sorrow 
unfortunate  princess  ;  it  must  needs  be  great  for  the  loss  of  rf 
busbar  d  so  accomplished  as  you  describe  Camaralzaman ;  I 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  215 

irill  keep  your  secret,  and  shall  be  glad,  by  eveiy  means  ir  mj 
power,  to  alleviate  your  grief."  From  this  time  the  most  per- 
fect friendship  took  place  between  the  two  princesses  ;  ana 
Badoura  became  every  day  more  esteemed  by  Armanos  and 
his  people,  conducting  the  affairs  of  the  kingdom  with  great 
ability  and  success. 

While  these  things  passed  in  the  island  of  Ebene,  Camaral 
zaman  remained  with  his  friendly  gardener,  impatiently  wait 
ing  for  the  time  when  he  should  be  able  to  set  forward  w 
search  of  his  beloved  Badoura.  One  morning,  when  he  was 
preparing  to  go  to  work,  the  gardener  prevented  him,  saying, 
"This  day  is  a  great  festival  with  the  idolaters,  on  which 
account  they  will  not  suffer  Mussulmen  to  work.  I  will  go  to 
the  port,  and  as  the  time  approaches  in  which  the  ship  sails  to 
Ebene,  I  will  secure  you  a  passage  in  it.  But  I  would  advise 
you  to  continue  here,  and  amuse  yourself  in  the  garden  till  I 
return. 

The  prince  pursued  the  advice  of  his  host.  While  he  was 
reposing  himself  under  a  tuft  of  trees,  indulging  his  melan- 
choly reflections,  he  was  disturbed  by  two  birds  fighting,  and 
making  a  great  noise  very  near  him.  In  a  little  time  one  cl 
them  fell  down  dead,  and  the  victorious  bird  flew  away. 

In  a  short  time  two  other  birds  came,  and  pitched  them- 
selves one  at  the  head  and  the  other  at  the  feet  of  the  dead 
bird.  After  seeming  to  express  much  concern,  they  dug  a 
grave  with  their  talons,  and  interred  the  defunct.  This  done, 
they  flew  away ;  but  returned  in  a  few  minutes,  bringing  with 
them  the  victor  bird,  one  holding  a  wing  in  her  beak,  the  other 
<*  leg ;  the  prisoner  all  the  while  screaming  most  piteously,  and 
struggling  to  escape.  They  carried  him  to  the  grave  of  the 
dead  bird,  where  they  put  him  to  death ;  and  tearing  him  to 
pieces  with  their  beaks,  they  strewed  his  remains  about  the 
place  where  they  had  buried  his  antagonist. 

When  the  two  avenging  birds  had  flown  away,  Cainaralza, 
aaan  drew  near  the  spot,  and  looking  on  the  dismembered  car 
lose,  he  saw  something  red  banging  out  of  it.  He  took  it  up 


216  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

und  fotznd  it  was  his  beloved  Badoura's  talisman.  Nothing 
could  exceed  the  joy  he  felt  on  this  happy  event.  He  had  n« 
doubt  but  it  was  a  presage  of  a  speedy  meeting  with  his 
lovely  princess.  He  triumphed  over  the  mischievous  bird 
who  had  been  the  cause  of  his  misfortunes,  and  rejoiced  at 
the  vengeance  which  had  overtaken  him,  in  the  perpetration  oi 
a  new  enormity  against  one  of  his  own  species. 

The  prince  being  much  agitated  with  the  adventure  of  the 
Jay,  retired  to  rest  before  the  return  of  the  gardener.  In  the 
morning,  he  related  to  his  host  what  had  befallen  him. 
The  friendly  gardener  took  part  in  his  satisfaction:  "I  con- 
gratulate you,  prince,"  said  he,  "  on  this  happy  event ;  and  I 
shall  increase  your  joy,  by  acquainting  you  that  the  vessel 
sails  to  Ebene  in  a  few  days.  The  exact  time  will  b<> 
appointed  this  morning ;  I  will  return  to  the  port,  and  bring  yon 
notice  of  it ;  meantime  you  will  find  exercise  and  amusement 
by  cutting  away  yon  decayed  tree." 

The  gardener  set  out  accordingly,  and  Camaralzaman  took 
his  tools  and  began  to  dig  round  the  tree.  When  he  had 
turned  up  the  earth  a  few  feet  deep,  he  discovered  a  broad 
plate  of  brass,  under  which  was  a  staircase  of  ten  steps :  he 
went  down,  and  at  the  bottom  saw  a  cave,  with  fifty  brass  urns 
placed  in  order  around  it.  He  opened  them  all,  and  found 
them  full  of  gold-dust.  The  prince  was  mucl  pleased  with 
this  event ;  and  as  soon  as  the  gardener  returned  he  conducted 
him  to  the  cave,  and  congratulated  him  on  his  possessing  so 
much  wealth  in  his  old  age,  the  reward  of  his  virtue,  and  a 
recompense  for  his  past  labor. 

a  How ! "  replied  the  gardener,  "  do  you  think  I  will  take 
these  riches  as  mine  ?  for  fourscore  years  I  have  labored  in 
this  garden  ;  if  this  treasure  had  been  destined  for  me,  I  should 
have  found  it  long  ago.  It  comes  to  you,  prince,  in  good  time, 
as  three  days  hence  the  vessel  sails  to  Ebene,  and  I  have  taken 
a  passage  for  you  in  it."  Camaralzaman  pressed  his  host 
much  to  receive  the  treasure  ;  and  after  a  long  dispute.,  thejf 
agreed  to  divide  it  between  them. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  211 

This  affair  being  settled,  the  gardener  told  Camaralzaman 
it  would  be  necessary  to  act  with  caution,  or  the  idolaters  would 
Beize  his  treasure :  "  fill,  therefore,"  said  he,  "  fifty  jars,  half 
with  gold-dust,  the  other  half  with  olives ;  which  is  a  common 
article  of  traffic  between  this  place  and  Ebene,  where  there 
are  none  grow."  The  prince  took  this  prudent  advice ;  and, 
fearing  lest  his  talisman  should  be  again  lost,  he  carefully  put 
it  up  in  one  of  the  jars,  and  sent  the  whole  on  board  the  vessel. 

The  next  day  Camaralzaman  had  the  mortification  to  find 
his  friendly  host  exceeding  ill :  the  day  following  he  grew 
worse;  and,  on  the  third  day,  when  the  prince  should  have 
embarked,  he  was  in  the  agonies  of  death.  The  wind  being 
fair,  the  captain  sent  to  his  passenger,  'and  pressed  him  to 
come  on  board  immediately.  The  distress  of  the  prince  was 
extreme.  If  he  missed  this  opportunity,  he  knew  it  must  be 
another  year  before  he  could  get  away  from  the  city  of  idola- 
ters ;  all  which  time  he  must  remain  in  uncertainty  as  to  the 
fate  of  his  dear  princess.  Her  sorrow  for  him  also  must  con- 
tinue PO  much  longer.  Nor  was  this  all ;  the  talisman,  that 
louree  of  all  his  misfortunes,  was  no  longer  in  his  possession ; 
and  in  whose  hands  it  might  fall,  when  the  ship  arrived  at 
Ebene,  it  was  impossible  to  foresee. 

On  the  other  hand,  to  leave  his  benefactor  to  expire  by  him- 
self, when  he  ought  to  receive  the  confession  of  his  faith,  which 
all  good  Mussulmen  repeat  before  they  die ;  to  suffer  his  re- 
•dams  to  perish  unburied,  and  insulted  by  the  idolaters,  (which 
tie  knew  must  be  the  case,  if  he  did  not  stay  to  fulfil  the  last 
offices  for  him,)  all  this  was  such  an  ungrateful  return  for  the 
gardener's  zeal,  fidelity,  and  benevolence,  that,  though  the  strug- 
gle was  a  severe  one,  the  virtue  of  the  prince  prevailed.  He 
received  the  last  breath  of  his  friendly  host,  washed  his  body, 
and  interred  it  decently  in  his  own  garden ;  after  which,  though 
night  was  at  hand,  he  ran  to  the  seaside,  and  had  the  mortifi- 
cation to  find  that  the  vessel  had  sailed  about  an  hour  before* 
ihe  captain  having  waited  for  him  till  the  last  moment. 

Camaralzaman  submitted  to  his  fate  with  fortitude,  though 
19 


8X8  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

not  without  extreme  sorrow,  the  consciousness  of  having  acted 
right,  supporting  him  under  the  painful  consequences  of  it.  The 
vessel  had  a  quick  passage  to  Ebene ;  where,  on  its  arriyal, 
inquiry  was  made,  by  command  of  the  king,  if  it  had  brought 
any  olives.  It  happened  there  were  none  on  board  but  those 
belonging  to  Camaralzaman.  Badoura,  who  was  fond  of  that 
fruit,  ordered  all  the  fifty  jars  to  be  bought  at  a  high  price  for 
her  own  use. 

In  the  evening,  when  the  princess  withdrew  into  the  inner 
palace  to  sup  with  Haiatalnefous,  she  ordered  some  of  these 
olives  to  be  brought  to  table.  On  emptying  the  jar,  they  were 
surprised  to  find  a  large  quantity  of  gold-dust  amongst  them ; 
and,  on  further  examination,  Badoura  saw  and  remembered 
her  talisman.  She  caught  it  up,  and  immediately  fainted  away* 

On  her  recovery  she  dismissed  the  attendants,  and,  showing 
Haiatalnefous  the  talisman,  the  two  princesses  rejoiced  together 
in  the  fortunate  omen.  In  the  morning  the  supposed  king 
sent  for  the  captain  of  the  vessel,  and  inquired  strictly  who 
was  the  owner  of  the  olives  he  had  sold  the  day  before  ?  The 
captain  readily  told  the  little  he  knew  of  him ;  on  which  Ba~ 
doura  commanded  him  to  sail  immediately,  to  seize  that  man. 
and  bring  him  to  Ebene,  offering  great  rewards  if  this  was 
done,  and  threatening  every  severity  if  be  failed. 

The  captain  set  sail  accordingly.  When  he  arrived  off  the 
city  of  idolaters,  he  did  not  think  proper  to  enter  the  harbor , 
but  drawing  as  near  the  coast  as  he  could,  when  it  was  dark, 
he  landed  a  party  of  his  men,  and  seizing  Camaralzaman,  con- 
veyed him  aboard  with  great  silence ;  after  which  he  imme- 
diately hoisted  sail  again  for  Ebene. 

The  captain,  agreeable  to  his  instructions,  treated  the  prince 
with  great  respect,  but  refused  to  tell  him  why  he  was  thus 
made  a  prisoner.  The  princess  Badoura  had  immediate  notice 
OL  their  arrival,  when  she  ordered  Camaralzaman  to  be  brought 
into  her  presence.  She  instantly  knew  him,  notwithstanding 
his  gardener's  dress.  Had  she  followed  the  dictates  of  h«-i 
Veart,  she  would  have  flown  to  his  embraces;  but 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  219 

tt  was  more  to  his  interest  for  her  to  support  the  character  of 
king  a  little  longer,  she  suppressed  her  emotions,  and  ordered 
him  to  be  conducted  to  a  handsome  apartment,  and  supplied 
with  everything  he  wanted  in  the  most  ample  manner. 

The  next  morning  she  caused  him  to  be  richly  clothed,  and 
introduced  to  her  in  council ;  and  in  the  presence  of  the  emirs 
she  avowed  her  knowledge  of  his  abilities,  and  appointed  him 
lord  treasurer.  Camaralzaman  received  his  appointment  with 
wonder,  and  would  have  rejoiced  in  so  favorable  a  change  in 
Ms  situation,  if  all  joy  had  not  been  destroyed  by  his  fruitless 
mquiry  after  his  beloved  princess. 

For  a  short  time  he  executed  the  duties  of  his  office  with 
great  ability ;  when  the  supposed  king,  desirous  to  put  an  end 
to  his  sorrow,  and  her  own  constraint,  ordered  him  to  attend 
her  one  evening  in  the  inner  palace.  When  he  arrived,  Ba 
doura  led  him  into  a  private  room,  and  taking  the  talisman 
out  of  her  pocket,  said,  "  it  is  not  long  since  this  was  presented 
to  me.  As  I  have  reason  to  think  you  are  skilled  in  these 
things,  I  would  know  of  you  what  are  its  properties." 

Camaralzaman  took  the  talisman,  and  drawing  near  a  lamp 
to  look  at  it,  immediately  knew  it.  "  O  king,"  exclaimed  he, 
*  it  has  one  property,  which  is  to  kill  me  with  grief  if  I  do 
not  shortly  find  one  of  the  most  charming  women  in  the  world 
to  whom  it  belongs,  whose  loss  I  have  never  ceased  a  moment 
to  deplore ;  nor  shall  I  fail  to  excite  your  compassion,  when  I 
have  related  my  misfortunes  to  you." 

"  At  another  time,"  replied  Badour#,  "  I  shall  willingly  hear 
your  story.  You  may  suppose  I  am  not  entirely  unacquainted 
with  it.  But  compose  yourself  now,  and  wait  here  till  I  return 
to  you."  Having  said  this,  she  retired,  and  laying  aside  her 
regal  robes,  she  dressed  herself  as  a  woman,  and  presented 
btrsdf  to  her  husband. 

It  «vouid  be  in  vain  to  attempt  relating  the  transports  of  the 
lovers  on  their  re-union.  After  they  were  a  little  subsided, 
Camaralzaman  expressed  his  gratitude  to  the  king  for  having 
«o  greatly  delighted  and  surprised  him.  "  Do  not  expert,' 


220  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

replie^  the  princess,  "  to  see  that  king  any  more."  SLC  toe* 
proceeded  to  relate  to  him  her  adventures,  and  the  plan  slu 
had  formed  to  procure  for  him  the  crown  of  Ebene. 

In  the  morning  Badoura  sent  a  message  to  Armanos,  de* 
siring  to  see  him.  He  came  immediately,  and  finding  in  the 
inner  palace  a  strange  lady  and  the  lord  treasurer,  (whose 
presence  in  those  apartments  was  unlawful,)  was  at  a  loss  what 
to  say.  Sitting  down,  he  asked  where  the  king  was  ?  to  which 
Badoura  replied,  "  yesterday,  my  lord,  I  was  king ;  but  now 
am  contented  to  be  only  princess  of  China,  and  to  acknowledge 
that  prince  for  my  husband." 

She  went  on  relating  her  story,  and  explaining  to  Armanos 
the  motives  of  her  conduct.  Your  daughter,  sir,  the  lovely 
Haiatalnefous,  has  assisted  me  in  this  critical  situation  witl 
her  secrecy  and  her  councils.  In  return,  if  your  majesty 
chooses  to  bestow  your  crown  on  the  real  Camaralzaman,  I 
am  willing  he  should  become  her  husband  also ;  to  which  I 
have  her  permission  to  declare  her  consent." 

Armanos  was  delighted  with  the  spirit  and  good  conduct  of 
Badoura;  he  readily  agreed  to  confer  his  daughter  and  his 
crown  on  so  deserving  a  prince  as  Camaralzaman,  who  receiv- 
ed them  both  with  the  utmost  gratitude. 

The  next  year,  each  of  the  princesses  brought  forth  a  son. 
The  prince,  of  whom  Badoura  was  delivered,  was  named  Am- 
grad  (most  glorious.)  The  son  of  Haiatalnefous  was  called 
(most  happy.)  Their  birth  increased  the  friendship  of  their 
*x>yal  parents,  and  greatly  heightened  the  satisfaction  of  the 
rcnerable  king  Armanos. 


The  Story  of  the  Princess  Amgrad  and  Assad. 

KING  Camaralzaman  lived  many  years  happily  with  his 
(ijeens  Badoura  and  Haiatalnefous.  He  had  the  delight  to 
aid  his  two  sons,  as  they  grew  up,  become  very  accomplished 
princes,  and  very  dutiful  children.  The  most  cordial  friend- 
ship su listed  between  the  two  queens ;  and  the  princes  having 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  22i 

Jhe  same  tutors,  the  same  officers,  the  same  amusements,  seem 
ed  also  to  have  the  same  soul :  the  most  perfect  fi  aternal  a£ 
fection  binding  them  to  each  other. 

This  delightful  scene  of  domestic  felicity  was  at  once  de- 
stroyed by  the  folly  of  Camaralzaman.  The  young  princea 
had  attained  the  age  of  eighteen,  and  the  king  was  past  the 
meridian  of  life,  when  he  took  a  fancy  to  indulge  himself  with 
the  privilege  the  prophet  allows,  and  married  two  other  wives. 
The  ladies  were  young  and  of  exquisite  beauty ;  but,  besides 
beauty,  they  possessed  no  desirable,  quality.  Camaralzaman 
was  so  infatuated  that  he  treated  his  two  respectable  queens 
with  neglect,  and  attached  himself  to  his  new  wives,  with  a 
fondness  bordering  on  dotage.  Far  from  returning  this  ridicu- 
lous passion,  they  turned  their  thoughts  to  other  objects.  The 
manly  graces  of  the  two  young  princes  engaged  their  atten 
tion ;  and  they  contrived  to  let  them  know  that  their  visits 
might  be  secret,  and  would  not  be  unwelcome. 

Amgrad  and  Assad  had  too  much  filial  piety  to  receive  this 
invitation  with  patience.  They  rejected  the  offer  with  abhor- 
rence, and  even  punished  the  slave  severely  who  brought  the 
billets.  From  this  moment  the  new  queens  vowed  their  de- 
struction. In  the  state  of  the  king's  mind  this  was  not  difficult 
to  effect.  They  ceased  not  to  insinuate  that  the  young  men 
were  disgusted  on  behalf  of  their  mothers,  and  had  ambitious 
designs  of  their  own.  These  hints  were  dropped,  as  if  given 
with  reluctance,  and  extorted  from  them  through  concern  for 
the  king's  safety. 

By  these  arts  Camaralzaman  was  led  to  consider  his  sons 
as  his  most  dangerous  enemies.  He  would  have  publicly  put 
them  to  death,  but  that  he  dreaded  their  popularity.  He 
directed  them,  therefore,  to  go  to  a  distant  place  on  the  fron- 
tiers of  the  kingdom,  pretending  that  their  studies  were  inter- 
rupted by  the  bustle  of  the  capital.  An  emir  of  the  name  of 
Giendar,  with  a  few  attendants,  were  ordered  to  escort  them , 
and  the  princes,  whose  obedience  to  the  commands  of  *heu 
Gather  was  implicit,  set  out  accordingly.  When  they  arrived 

19* 


£22  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

at  an  extensive  and  uncultivated  forest,  Giendar  left  h'u  reti- 
aue  on  the  borders,  and  led  the  princes  a  considerable  waj 
within  it,  where  he  produced  an  order  from  the  king  to  pul 
them  both  to  death;  they  submitted  without  murmuring  to 
this  cruel  decree  ;  a  contest  only  arose  between  them  who 
should  be  first  sacrificed  to  their  father's  caprice.  This  affect- 
ing dispute  was  carried  on  with  so  much  tenderness,  as  quite 
melted  the  emir.  At  this  instant  a  lion  jumped  out  of  th« 
thicket  and  made  at  Giendar,  who,  in  his  flight,  dropped  hia 
gcimetar  and  fled. 

Notwithstanding  his  haste,  he  must  soon  have  been  destroy- 
ed, if  Amgrad  had  not  taken  pity  of  him.  He  caught  up  the 
scimetar  and  encountered  the  furious  beast,  at  the  moment  he 
was  about  to  seize  the  emir,  and,  by  a  fortunate  stroke,  felled 
him  to  the  ground  and  slew  him. 

Giendar,  thus  rescued  from  destruction,  threw  himself  at 
the  feet  of  his  deliverer.  "  I  should  be,"  said  he,  "  the  most 
unworthy  of  mankind  if  I  could  now,  for  a  moment,  enter- 
tain a  thought  of  performing  the  horrid  task  I  came  here  to 
execute.  Go,  unfortunate  princes,  continued  he,  "  heaven  will 
no  doubt  protect  your  innocence.  Go,  and  seek  from  fortune 
a  more  favorable  country  ;  only  give  me  your  upper  garments, 
that  I  may  produce  them  to  the  king  as  a  proof  that  I  have 
obeyed  him.  The  princes  complied,  and  gave  him  their  gar- 
ments, which  the  emir  dipped  in  the  blood  of  the  lion  ;  and 
then,  with  many  expressions  of  gratitude  and  affection,  he 
bade  them  farewell. 

On  Giendar's  return  to  court,  Camaralzaman  was  very  in- 
quisitive to  know  in  what  manner  his  sons  had  submitted  tc 
their  fate,  and  whether  they  had  confessed  their  guilt.  The 
emir  told  the  king  that  they  received  his  order  with  the  most 
dutiful  resignation  ;  that  they  protested  their  innocence  with 
last  breath,  and  died  blessing  their  royal  father,  who  had 
led  by  the  deceit  and  wickedness  of  others  to  destroy  Us 


The  king  was  much  affected  by  this  account     A  sudder 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  2*Al 

impulse  led  him  to  examine  the  clothes  of  his  sons.  Ir  thei* 
pockets  he  found  the  letters  they  had  received  from  their  nevr 
favorites,  who  had  wrought  their  destruction.  The  whole  trutb 
at  once  flashed  on  the  unhappy  Camaralzaman.  He  saw  with 
horror  the  guilt  and  misery  into  which  he  had  been  misled, 
As  some  atonement,  he  immediately  banished  his  betrayers, 
separately,  to  the  most  remote  parts  of  his  dominions ;  whc^re 
they  ended  their  days  in  prison,  after  many  years  spent  in 
solitude,  and  in  those  tormenting  reflections  which  wickedness 
ever  excites  in  the  minds  of  her  unhappy  votaries. 

The  two  unfortunate  princes  wandered  some  months  in  a 
trackless  country,  passing  over  mountains  scarce  accessible, 
and  through  forests  they  could  with  difficulty  penetrate,  living 
on  such  fruits  and  herbs  as  they  could  find,  and  watching  by 
turns  at  night  to  guard  against  the  wild  beasts. 

At  length  they  arrived  within  sight  of  a  large  city.  When 
they  drew  near  it,  they  agreed  that  one  of  them  only  should 
enter  it,  and  learn  what  sort  of  people  inhabited  it.  After 
much  dispute  who  should  go,  each  wishing  to  shield  the  other 
from  danger  by  exposing  himself  to  it,  they  agreed  to  draw 
lots,  —  when  the  chance  falling  to  Assad,  he  took  a  tender 
leave  of  his  brother,  whom  he  left  in  a  grove  not  far  from  the 
city. 

As  soon  as  Assad  arrived  there,  he  inquired  of  a  reverend 
old  man  which  was  the  way  to  the  market-place,  being  desirous 
to  purchase  provisions  for  his  own  and  his  brother's  refresh 
ment.  Tlje  old  man  was  well  dressed,  and  appeared  respect- 
able. He  answered  very  obligingly,  "  that,  seeing  he  was  a 
stranger,  he  would  walk  with  him  thither."  They  chatted  as  they 
passed  along ;  and  the  old  man  contrived  to  represent  himself 
to  the  unsuspecting  prince,  as  a  wonder  of  honesty  and  goodness. 
When  they  came  to  a  great  house  the  old  man  said,  "  Son,  you 
must  needs  be  weary;  this  is  my  house,  which  I  entreat  yoi 
to  enter,  and  let  me  set  before  you  such  fare  as  it  affords 
after  which  I  will  attend  you  to  any  part  of  the  city."  The 
prince,  who  was  really  fatigued,  and  had  also  ft  rmed  a 


224  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

good  opinion  of  his  conductor,  thankfully  accepted  hia 
invitation. 

The  old  man  led  Assad  through  a  long  passage  into  a  hall 
where  there  were  forty  other  persons,  who  made  a  circle  round 
a  flaming  fire,  which  they  adore.  The  prince  was  shocked  at 
their  impiety ;  but  his  attention  was  soon  taken  up  with  his 
own  concerns.  The  old  cheat  saluted  the  company,  saying, 
*  devout  adorers  of  fire,  this  is  a  fortunate  day  for  us.  This 
young  Mussulman  will  be  an  acceptable  sacrifice  to  our  divin- 
ity. Gazban,  continued  he,  addressing  himself  to  the  black 
slave,  do  you  take  him  and  prepare  him,  by  proper  chastise- 
ment, for  the  holy  festival ;  and  let  my  daughters,  Bostava 
and  Cavama,  regulate  his  diet,  that  he  may  be  fit  to  be  offered 
up  when  the  next  ship  departs  for  the  blue  sea  and  the  fiery 
mountain. 

Assad  saw  all  resistance  was  in  vain.  He  disdained  to 
expostulate  with  the  hoary  traitor,  who  had  deceived  him,  and 
submitted  with  fortitude  to  his  fate.  Gazban  loaded  him 
with  chains,  and  threw  him  into  a  dungeon,  where  he  failed 
not  to  visit  him  often,  and  administer  the  discipline  of  the 
whip. 

Once  a  da}  Bostava  and  Cavama  attended  him  with  the 
coarsest  food  ;  and  as  he  was  chained  hands  and  feet,  they  fed 
him.  All  the  time  they  reproached  and  mortified  him,  by 
every  insult  and  barbarity  in  their  power.  While  they  thus 
obeyed  their  father,  and  performed  as  they  supposed  an  ac- 
ceptable service  to  their  deity,  Cavama  gratified  a  furious  and 
malignant  zeal ;  but  Bostava  was  of  a  more  gentle  nature, 
and  whenever  she  could,  with  safety  to  herself,  she  did  him 
kind  offices. 

Amgrad  waited  for  his  brother's  return  with  extreme  impa- 
tience, and  at  length  resolved  to  enter  the  city  in  search  of 
him.  On  his  arrival,  he  was  surprised  to  find  so  few  people  in 
the  habit  of  Mussulmen.  At  length,  seeing  one  of  that  de« 
scription  at  work  in  his  shop,  he  asked  him  the  name  of  the, 
ntj,  and  how  it  came  to  pass  that  he  met  so  few  of  the  faitb 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  22i 

ful  in  it?  "Brother,"  replied  the  tailor,  "I  peicelve  ihat  yoc 
are  a  stranger;  if  you  will  come  in  and  sit  down,  I  cm*- 
converse  with  you  freely,  and  will  give  you  advice  which  may 
be  of  use  to  }ou."  Amgrad  accepted  his  invitation,  and  be- 
ing very  anxious  about  Assad,  he  began  to  inquire,  with  grea? 
earnestness,  if  he  had  seen  or  heard  of  such  a  person. 

''Alas !  sir,"  replied  the  friendly  tailor,  "  I  have  not  seen  him  $ 
and  I  very  much  fear  you  will  never  see  him  again.  This  city 
is  called  the  city  of  Magicians,  because-  the  most  of  the  inhabi- 
tants are  of  that  description.  They  are  all  adorers  of  fire,  and 
bear  a  mortal  hatred  to  the  true  believers.  They  dare  not 
assault  us  of  that  faith,  who  are  inhabitants  of  the  city  ;  but  if 
a  stranger  Mussulman  falls  into  their  hands,  he  is  seldom  heard 
of  more.  Do  not,  however,  give  way  to  fruitless  grief;  you 
shall  live  with  me,  till  you  have  learned  the  customs  of  the 
place,  and  then  you  will  be  in  perfect  safety." 

Amgrad  accepted  the  tailor's  invitation,  and  continued  with 
him  for  more  than  a  month,  without  once  stirring  out  of  doors. 
At  length,  weary  with  so  long  a  confinement,  and  thinking  he 
had  learned  sufficient  caution,  from  the  conversation  of  his 
host,  he  ventured  to  go  to  the  public  baths. 

On  his  return,  he  fell  into  a  scrape,  which  had  nearly  proved 
fatal  to  him.  A  beautiful  wanton  accosted  him,  and  removing 
her  veil,  discovered  charms  which  were  irresistible ;  after  con- 
versing with  him  for  some  time,  she  frankly  offered  to  go  home 
and  dine  with  him.  Amgrad  durst  not  conduct  her  to  the 
house  of  his  friendly  tailor ;  yet  he  had  no  mind  to  refuse 
her  offer.  In  this  uncertainty,  he  resolved  to  throw  himself 
upon  chance.  He  walked  on  from  street  to  street,  the  lady 
following  him,  till  they  both  were  very  weary.  They  came 
at  length  to  &  large  gate,  which  had  a  seat  on  each  side  of 
it,  on  one  ot  which  Amgrad  seated  the  lady,  and  sa*  down 
himself  on  the  other. 

The  lady  asked  him  if  that  was  the  door  of  his  house  ?  He 
inconsiderately  replied  it  was.  "  Why  do  you  not  gc  in  then  ?  " 
•aid  the  lady  ;  "it  is  not  decent  for  me  to  sit  here."  Tht 


226  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

prince,  by  this  time,  had  begun  to  reflect  upon  his  situation, 
.and  earnestly  wished  to  get  rid  of  his  companion :  he  told  hert 
therefore,  that  his  slave  had  the  key,  and  he  feared  would  not 
return  for  a  great  while,  as  he  frequently  staid  long,  on  hia 
errands. 

The  lady  abused  and  threatened  the  absent  slave;  and 
taking  up  a  stone,  broke  the  lock,  which  was  only  wood,  and 
weak,  according  to  the  fashion  of  the  country.  She  then  led 
Amgrad  into  a  spacious  hall,  where  they  found  a  table  spread 
with  all  sorts  of  dainties,  a  side-board  covered  with  choice  fruit, 
and  a  cistern  full  of  bottles  of  choice  wine.  The  sight  of  such 
a  provision,  gave  the  prince  a  high  opinion  of  the  owner's  qual- 
ity, and  of  his  own  danger  in  thus  daring  to  intrude  upon  him. 

The  lady  sat  down  to  the  table,  and  ate  and  drank  heartily, 
obliging  Amgrad  *o  bear  her  company.  The  prince  was  aston- 
ished that  in  a  hoi  se  so  rich  and  plentifully  furnished,  there 
should  be  no  serv?  at.  He  began  to  hope  that  he  might  finish 
the  intrigue  before  they  or  their  master  should  arrive ;  when, 
on  a  sudden,  he  saw  a  man  thrust  his  head  In  at  the  door,  and 
beckon  to  him.  The  lady  sat  with  her  back  to  the  door,  and 
did  not  see  him ;  but  Amgrad,  more  dead  than  alive,  got  up, 
uid  making  a  slif^it  excuse,  went  out. 

The  house  bel'  aged  to  Bahader,  master  of  the  horse  to  the 
king  of  Magicia  8.     He  had  a  residence  elsewhere ;  and  only . 
kept  this  for  the  occasional  reception  of  certain  friends,  whom 
he  used  to  meet  here  in  disguise. 

Bahader  was  alone  when  he  came  to  his  house,  and  found  it 
broke  open.  On  entering  the  hall,  he  saw  a  young  gentleman 
and  lady  eating  refreshments  he  had  provided  for  his  friends 
He  was  a  person  of  great  good  nature,  and  supposing  some- 
thing extraordinary  had  occasioned  the  intrusion,  he  deter- 
mined to  beckon  out  the  gentleman,  and  come  to  an  explanation 
with  him  alone,  rather  than  question  him  before  the  lady. 

The  prince,  when  he  came  out  to  Bahader,  was  covered 
with  confusion.  He  ingeniously  told  the  master  of  the  horse 
tho  ¥  le  truth,  revealing  at  the  same  time  his  quality 


ENTERTAINMENTS  22V 

Bahader,  with  much  good  humor,  told  him  that  he  would  noi 
interrupt  his  frolic.  "  I  will  send,"  said  he,  "  and  forbid  my 
friends  coming  to-day ;  and  as  you  have  no  slave,  I  will  take 
that  office  upon  me :  I  desire  you  will  behave  to  me,  as  if  I 
was  really  so,  that  you  may  not  suffer  in  the  opinion  of  your 
mi-stress."  Amgrad  paid  his  acknowledgments  to  Bahader,  and 
returned  to  the  lady  in  much  higher  spirits  than  when  he  left 
her. 

Shortly  after,  the  master  of  the  horse,  having  put  on  th< 
habit  of  a  slave,  entered  the  hall  with  humility  suitable  tc  the 
character  he  had  assumed.  On  his  appearance,  the  lady  rated 
him  in  the  harshest  terms,  for  not  being  in  the  way  when  his 
master  returned.  Not  content  with  this,  she  seized  a  stick, 
and  began  to  beat  him  with  great  severity.  Amgrad  present- 
ly rescued  him,  and,  when  she  could  beat  him  no  longer,  shn 
eat  down,  threatening  and  cursing  him. 

They  continued  together  in  the  hall,  eating  fruit  and  drink- 
ing wine,  till  evening;  and,  as  often  as  the  supposed  slave 
appearea,  .-nw  iau^  muttered  against  him  harsh  threats  and  the 
most  reproachful  names.  When  it  grew  late,  Bahader  fell 
asleep  in  the  adjoining  chamber.  The  lady,  hearing  him  snore, 
seized  Amgrad's  scimetar,  and  besought  him  to  let  her  put  his 
slave  to  death.  The  prince  endeavored  in  vain  to  pacify  her. 
Her  rage  increasing  as  they  disputed,  she  drew  the  scimetar, 
and  vowed  she  would  dispatch  him,  even  without  his  master's 
consent.  "  It  is  enough,  madam,"  said  Amgrad ;  "  the  slavfl 
fihall  die,  since  you  desire  it ;  but  give  me  the  scimetar ;  I  should 
be  sorry  he  shruld  fall  by  any  hand  but  my  own."  She  re- 
stored him  the  scimetar,  which  he  lifted  up,  and  at  one  blow 
cut  of!  hei  head,  which  fell  upon  Bahader  and  awakened  him. 

The  master  of  the  horse  was  amazed  to  see  Amgrad,  with  a 
sabre  all  bloody,  and  the  body  of  the  lady  headless  on  the 
ground.  The  prince  told  him  what  had  passed,  and  added, 
* 1  had  no  way  of  preserving  your  life,  but  by  putting  an  end 
to  hers."  Bahader  was  much  shocked  and  alarmed.  He  knew 
that  a3  private  assassinations  were  sometines  committed  ii 


228  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

the  city,  the  police  were  very  watchful  in  detecting,  and  thf 
fcing  very  rigorous  in  punishing  them.  Yet  how  great  socvel 
the  danger,  he  could  not  blame  the  prince  who  had  preserved 
him.  He  put  the  body  in  a  sack,  and,  taking  leave  of  Amgrad, 
Baid,  "  You,  sir,  who  are  a  stranger,  can  neither  judge  of  the 
necessity  of  removing  the  body,  nor  are  you  sufficiently  ao* 
quainted  with  the  city  to  carry  it  to  the  sea,  where  it  must  be 
thrown ;  but,  as  you  put  the  lady  to  death  to  save  my  life,  it  is 
proper  I  should  take  the  risk  that  may  attend  that  action  on 
myself." 

Bahader  set  out  accordingly,  with  the  sack  over  his  shoulder. 
He  had  not  gone  far,  when  he  was  met  by  one  of  the  magis- 
trates, whose  officers  stopped  and  searched  him.  He  was  imme- 
diately taken  into  custody,  and  the  next  morning,  in  compli- 
ment to  his  situation  as  one  of  the  royal  domestics,  was  brought 
before  the  king.  But  all  defence  was  in  vain,  when  the  dead 
body  was  produced.  The  king  was  so  enraged,  that  he  order- 
ed execution  to  take  place  immediately ;  and  a  crier  was  sent 
through  the  city  to  give  public  notice  of  his  crime  an^  punish- 
ment. 

Luckily  the  crier  stopped  under  the  window  of  the  house 
where  prince  Amgrad  was.  As  soon  as  he  heard  the  procla- 
mation, he  took  his  resolution.  He  inquired  his  way  to  the 
royal  palace,  and  requested  an  audience  of  the  king,  as  the 
eon  of  a  neighboring  prince.  Being  introduced,  he  related  all 
that  had  befallen  him,  and  fully  exculpated  the  master  of  the 
horse.  The  king  was  highly  pleased  with  the  behavior  of 
Amgrad ;  he  readily  pardoned  Bahader ;  and,  soon  after,  find- 
ing the  prince  a  young  man  of  great  abilities,  he  appointed 
him  to  the  important  office  of  grand  vizier,  which  happened  to 
be  vacant. 

Assad,  in  the  meantime,  continued  in  the  dungeo^  The 
solemn  festival  of  the  adorers  of  fire  approached,  and  a  ship 
was  fitted  out  for  the  fiery  mountain,  as  usual,  under  command 
of  one  Behram,  an  able  sailor,  but  a  rigid  zealot  to  top*  re*i 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  228 

From  the  time  prince  Amgrad  was  appointed  grand  vizier, 
be  was  indefatigable  in  searching  after  his  beloved  brother  & 
and  when  he  heard  the  ship  was  about  to  sail  for  the  fiery 
mountain,  as  he  had  reason  to  fear  that  Assad  had  fallen  into 
the  hands  of  the  worshippers  of  fire,  he  resolved  to  search 
that  ship  with  the  utmost  strictness.  He  delayed  the  exam- 
ination till  the  ship  had  begun  to  sail,  when  going  on  board 
with  proper  assistance,  he  obliged  the  captain  to  return  into 
the  harbor.  He  then  superintended  the  search  himself,  and 
examined  every  part  of  the  ship  with  the  most  scrupulous 
attention ;  but  in  vain,  for  Behram  had  conveyed  the  prince 
on  board  in  a  chest  half  full  of  merchandize,  leaving  only 
room  for  him  to  breathe,  and  had  stowed  it  in  at  the  bottom 
of  the  hold. 

Amgrad,  thus  disappointed,  permitted  the  ship  to  proceed. 
Soon  after  they  had  sailed,  a  violent  storm  drove  them  out  of 
their  course,  and  when  it  abated,  they  had  the  mortification  to 
find  themselves  at  the  entrance  of  the  port  and  capital  of 
queen  Margiana,  a  devout  Mohammedan,  and  so  zealous  against 
the  worshippers  of  fire,  that  she  had  banished  them  her  domin- 
ions, and  forbade  their  ships  to  touch  at  any  of  her  ports 
under  the  severest  penalty. 

In  this  situation,  exposed  to  certain  destruction  if  they  con- 
tinued out  at  sea,  and  with  scarce  any  hope  of  escape  if  they 
ventured  to  land,  the  captain  applied  to  his  unfortunate  prisoner ; 
he  took  off  his  chains,  and  exacted  a  solemn  oath,  that  he  should 
act  as  he  was  directed,  and  on  no  account  declare  his  own 
situation.  Assad,  having  conformed  to  this  request,  was  clothed 
in  a  very  neat  dress,  as  he  was  to  pass  for  a  superior  slave ; 
after  which  Behram  boldly  steered  his  vessel  into  the  port, 
and  anchored  close  to  the  gardens  of  the  palace. 

As  the  storm  had  not  yet  entirely  subsided,  and  the  ship 
lay  at  the  furtherest  extent  of  the  port,  it  was  some  hours 
lefore  the  captain  was  summoned  to  attend  the  queen,  and  give 
un  account  of  his  vessel.  Behram  only  wished  to  gain  tima, 
iliat  the  weather  might  become  fine  again ;  he  delayed,  there* 

20 


J30  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

fore,  leaving  his  ship  as  long  as  possible,  and  at  length  §e\ 
forward  slowly,  taking  Assad  with  him. 

Behiam  hoped  that  Margiana,  seeing  a  Mits-ulman  will 
him,  would  not  inquire  very  particularly  about  the  rest  of  the 
crew.  If  she  did,  he  intended  to  present  Assad  to  her  as  a 
slave,  which  he  doubted  not  would  be  acceptable  to  her,  and 
that,  in  return,  she  would  allow  them  to  remain  in  port.  But 
as  the  weather,  during  his  delay  had  become  more  moderate 
before  he  was  admitted  to  the  queen's  presence,  he  altered  his 
intention  of  parting  with  Assad,  whom  he  again  hoped  to  keep 
for  the  sacrifice. 

The  queen  was  greatly  taken  with  the  supposed  slave.  After 
a  few  questions  to  the  captain,  she  turned  to  the  prince,  and 
asked  him  his  name.  The  unfortunate  youth,  restrained  by 
his  oath  from  declaring  his  situation,  with  tears  in  his  eyes 
desired  the  queen  would  tell  him,  if  she  wished  to  know  his 
former  or  his  present  name.  "  Have  you  two  names  ?  "  replied 
the  queen.  "  I  have,  madam,"  replied  he ;  "  my  former  name 
was  Assad  (most  happy)  ;  my  present  one  is  Morcar  (devoted 
tc  be  sacrificed). 

Though  Margiana  did  not  find  out  from  these  expressions 
the  true  situation  that  the  prince  was  in,  yet  she  understood 
that  he  was  unhappy.  Something  in  his  air  and  manner  seemed 
to  distinguish  him  :  her  partiality  was  confirmed,  and  her  pity 
awakened  by  his  answer.  She  said,  therefore,  to  the  captain, 
u  either  sell  me  this  slave,  or  give  him  to  me.  Perhaps  it 
will  turn  most  to  your  account  to  do  the  latter." 

Behram  bluntly  answered,  he  would  neither  sell  nor  give 
him ;  on  which  the  queen  replied,  in  anger,  "  then  I  will  seize 
him ;  and  do  you  leave  my  port  directly,  or  I  will  confiscate 
j>jur  vessel."  Saying  this,  she  led  the  prince  into  the  palace, 
—  Behram  withdrew  greatly  mortified,  and  prepared  to  put  to 
sea  immediately. 

The  queen  conducted  Assad  into  her  apartment,  and  desired 
be  would  tell  her  who  he  was,  and  by  what  means  he  canw 
into  the  power  of  the  captain.  Assad  concealed  nothing  fr  jrn 


ENTERTAfNMENTS.  23  4 

her.  When  the  queen  heard  that  he  was  of  royal  birth,  sh* 
was  no  longer  unwilling  to  indulge  a  passion  she  had  before 
begun  to  feel  for  him  of  the  most  tender  kind,  and  her  indig- 
nation against  the  adorers  of  fire  increased  in  proportion. 

As  evening  drew  on,  she  ordered  supper  to  be  served  eariy ; 
saying,  with  a  smile,  "  We  must  endeavor,  prince,  to  make 
you  some  amends  for  the  bad  meals  you  have  had  since  you 
tell  into  the  hands  of  these  barbarians."  An  elegant  repast 
was  served,  and  the  queen  ordered  Assad  to  be  supplied  liber- 
ally with  wine  to  raise  his  spirits.  But  this  kindness  was 
attended  with  mischievous  consequences.  The  prince,  after 
supper,  finding  he  had  drank  too  much  wine,  withdrew  into 
the  garden,  and  coming  to  a  fountain,  he  washed  his  hands 
and  face  to  refresh  himself,  after  which  he  sat  down,  and  the 
liquor  overpowering  him,  he  fell  asleep. 

Meanwhile,  Behram,  dreading  the  consequence  of  Assad 
explaining  his  former  situation  to  the  queen,  hastened  on  board, 
and  prepared  to  sail.  But  they  were  short  of  water,  and  as 
he  did  not  dare  to  apply  to  the  city  for  relief,  he  resolved  on 
a  bold  measure.  The  ship  lay  close  to  the  royal  gardens ;  it 
was  now  night ;  he  ordered  his  men  to  roll  the  casks  to  the 
Fountain  that  was  in  the  middle  of  them,  and  trusted  that  as  it 
was  dark,  he  might  fill  them  unobserved. 

While  some  of  the  sailors  were  thus  employed,  others  ram- 
bled tc  the  other  side  of  the  fountain,  where  they  discovered 
Assad  asleep.  They  knew  him  immediately ;  they  seized  him, 
and  conveyed  him,  still  asleep,  on  board  the  ship.  The  captain, 
overjoyed  that  he  had  so  unexpectedly  recovered  his  captive, 
soon  completed  his  watering,  and  set  sail  for  the  fiery  moun- 
tain 

While  this  passed  on  board  the  ship,  the  queen  began  to  b& 
much  alarmed  that  Assad  did  not  return.  She  sent  several 
of  her  slaves  into  the  garden  in  search  of  him ;  and  on  their 
returning  without  success,  she  ordered  a  party  of  her  guards 
to  attend  her  with  lighted  torches  for  the  same  purpose.  When 
they  came  to  the  fountain,  they  found  a  slipper,  which  the  queen 


f82  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

remembered  to  have  seen  worn  by  Assad:  the  sailors  had  left 
sufficient  marks  to  trace  them  to  the  shore  where  they  had 
taken  in  their  water ;  and  Behram's  vessel  having  put  to  8«a, 
left  Margiana  no  doubt  of  the  prince's  misfortune. 

There  lay  at  that  time  in  the  port  ready  for  sailing,  ten  of 
ths  queen's  men-of-war.  Without  waiting  for  daylight,  Mar- 
giana  went  on  board  one  of  these  ships,  and  ordered  the 
commander  to  put  to  sea  with  the  whole  fleet,  and  pursue  the 
merchantman ;  promising  to  give  the  ship  and  cargo  as  plun- 
der to  any  captain  who  should  be  so  fortunate  as  to  overtake  her. 

They  came  in  sight  of  the  prize  next  morning,  and  spread 
themselves  so  wide,  that  Behram  soon  saw  it  was  impossible  to 
escape.  In  this  situation,  the  captain  durst  not  be  found  with 
Assad  on  board ;  nor  would  he  venture  to  kill  him,  lest  some 
accidental  circumstance  should  betray  the  outrage.  He  com- 
manded him,  therefore,  to  be  brought  up  out  of  the  hold,  and 
thrust  him  overboard. 

Assad  was  an  expert  swimmer,  and  as  they  were  fortunately 
at  no  great  distance  from  the  shore,  he  made  shift  to  reach  it. 
Having  returned  thanks  to  heaven  for  his  escape,  and  refreshed 
himself  with  such  herbs  and  fruits  as  he  could  find,  he  trav- 
elled along  the  coast,  without  knowing  where  it  would  lead 
him.  On  the  evening  of  the  eleventh  day,  he  discovered  the 
city  of  Magicians,  which  he  immediately  knew.  He  set  for- 
ward towards  it  with  great  spirit,  and  having  gained  wisdom  b} 
his  misfortunes,  he  resolved  to  speak  to  no  one  but  MussuL 
men  ;  but  before  he  could  reach  the  city  the  gates  were  shut, 
and  he  was  obliged  to  take  shelter  for  that  night  in  one  of  the 
tombs  in  an  adjoining  cemetery. 

Behram,  when  he  had  thrown  the  prince  overboard,  as  he 
plainly  saw  it  was  impossible  to  escape  from  Margiana's  fleet, 
did  not  attempt  it.  He  lay  too,  till  the  ship  in  which  the 
queen  was  came  up  with  him,  when  he  lowered  his  sails  as  a 
token  of  his  yielding. 

The  queen  herself  came  on  board,  and  demanded  where 
&e  slave  was  whom  he  had  the  boldness  to  take  away  front 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  233 

H*'  oul  cf  her  very  palace.  Behram  vowed  the  blave  waa 
Hot  in  his  ship,  which  he  desired  might  be  searched,  and  ap 
pealed  to  the  issue  of  that  search  to  testify  his  innocence. 
.  The  most  exact  survey  was  made.  Every  box,  every  pack 
age  was  opened  to  no  purpose.  The  queen  hesitated.  As  il 
was  possible  Assad  might  have  escaped,  she  would  not  put 
Behram  and  his  companions  to  death ;  yet  sKa  was  so  much 
enraged  that  she  ordered  them  to  be  put  on  shore,  and  deliv- 
ered up  the  ship  and  cargo  to  the  commander,  as  she  had 
promised. 

Behram  and  his  seamen  knew  the  country  where  they  were 
landed,  and  set  off  immediately  for  the  city  of  Magicians,  where 
they  arrived  the  same  night  that  Assad  did ;  and  for  the  same 
reason  were  obliged  to  take  shelter  among  the  tombs.  In  the 
morning,  the  prince  was  seized  by  them ;  and  as  soon  as  the 
gates  were  open,  they  conveyed  him  in  the  midst  of  them  to 
the  house  of  his  former  persecutor. 

He  was  received  with  shouts  of  joy,  interrupted  by  re- 
proaches and  curses,  aiid  conducted  to  his  former  dungeon. 
While  he  was  lamenting  the  severity  of  his  fortune,  which 
had  again  so  strangely  betrayed  him  into  the  hands  of  hia 
cruel  tormentors,  Bostava  entered  with  a  cudgel,  a  loaf,  and  a 
pitcher. 

Assad,  overcome  with  so  many  calamities,  felt  his  heart  sink 
within  him  at  the  sight  of  one  he  had  so  much  reason  to 
dread;  but  he  was  agreeably  surprised  to  find  his  terrors 
groundless.  Bostava,  instead  of  treating  him  with  severity, 
loosened  his  chains,  and  set  before  him  some  choice  provisions 
and  pleasant  sherbet.  When  he  had  refreshed  himself,  she 
assured  him  that  he  was  entirely  safe  from  those  indignities  he 
dreaded.  "  Since  you  were  here,"  she  said,  "  a  slave,  who  is  a 
Mussulman,  has  converted  me  to  the  true  religion.  This  ia  an 
entire  secret  in  the  family.  As  soon  as  I  had  heard  you  wai 
brought  again  a  prisoner,  I  petitioned  to  have  the  sole  care  of 
you,  and  as  that  request  was  supposed  to  arise  from  my  devo- 
tion to  the  fire,  it  was  readily  granted.  By  this  means  it  is  ift 

20* 


£34  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

my  power  to  secure  you  from  every  evil  except  c:ufineineni< 
and  I  will  diligently  watch  for  an  opportunity  to  set  you  at 
liberty/' 

The  prince  was  transported  at  this  fortunate  event.  Hq 
related  to  Bostava  who  he  was,  and  said  everything  he  could 
imagine,  to  strengthen  her  belief  in  the  Mohammedan  religion. 
A  few  days  afterwards,  as  she  was  standing  at  her  father's 
door,  she  saw  the  grand  vizier  at  the  head  of  a  procession,  and 
lieard  a  crier  proclaim  a  great  reward  to  any  one  who  would 
give  information  of  the  prince  Assad.  As  no  one  was  in  the 
way  at  that  time  who  could  control  her,  she  hastened  to  the 
dungeon,  saying  to  the  prince,  "  follow  me  quickly ! "  she  con- 
ducted him  to  the  door,  and  showed  him  the  procession  where 
he  would  find  his  brother. 

Assad  flew  from  a  house  in  which  he  had  suffered  so  much, 
and  presented  himself  to  Amgrad,  who  instantly  knew  him. 
Their  meeting  was  inexpressibly  tender.  After  the  turbulence 
of  their  joy  had  a  little  subsided,  Amgrad  conducted  his 
brother  to  the  palace,  and  presented  him  to  the  king,  who  im- 
mediately appointed  him  one  of  his  viziers.  The  treatment 
Assad  had  received  from  the  worshippers  of  fire,  was  of  course 
related  to  the  sovereign,  who  in  a  rage  ordered  their  houses  to 
be  razed  to  the  ground.  The  old  man,  his  daughter  Cavama, 
and  Behram,  were  taken  and  ordered  to  be  put  to  death ;  but 
Bostava  entreated  prince  Assad  to  intercede  for  them ;  and 
they  were  pardoned  on  condition  of  their  becoming  Moham« 
medans,  to  which  they  agreed. 

Some  time  after  these  things,  the  princes  determined  tc 
return  to  their  father's  court,  not  doubting  but  he  was  by  thif 
time  convinced  of  their  innocence.  They  resigned  theix 
offices  to  the  king  of  the  Magicians,  and  thanked  him  for  his 
protection.  They  were  actually  taking  leave  of  their  royal 
renefactor,  when  a  tumult  was  heard,  and  an  officer  came  in, 
hastily,  with  a  notice  that  a  numerous  army  was  advancing 
tgainsf  the  city. 

The   king  being  exceedingly  alarmed,  Amgrad   proposed 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  23i 

Jiat  he  should  set  out  to  meet  the  invaders  with  a  small  reti- 
nue, and  inquire  the  cause  of  this  hostile  appearance.  This 
counsel  being  approved,  Amgrad  set  out  accordingly,  and  on 
kis  arrival  was  conducted  to  a  princess  who  commanded  the 
army.  In  answer  to  the  prince's  inquiries,  she  told  him  that 
she  had  no  quarrel  with  the  king  of  the  Magicians  :  "  I  come," 
said  she,  "  to  require,  in  good  friendship,  a  slave  named  Assad, 
to  be  given  up  to  me,  and  to  demand  punishment  of  cne 
Behram,  a  captain  of  a  ship  who  insolently  carried  him  away 
in  defiance  of  me :  I  hope  your  king  will  do  me  justice  when 
he  knows  that  I  am  Margiana." 

"  Mighty  queen,"  replied  Amgrad,  "  the  slave  to  whom  you 
do  so  much  honor,  is  my  brother ;  if  your  majesty  will  permit 
me  to  conduct  you  to  my  master's  palace,  I  will  present  him  to 
you."  Margiana  was  rejoiced  at  this  account.  She  ordered 
her  army  to  encamp  where  they  were,  and  set  out  immedi- 
ately for  the  palace.  The  king '  received  her  as  became  her 
dignity,  and  Assad  paid  his  duty  to  her  in  a  manner  which 
highly  delighted  her. 

While  they  were  thus  engaged,  news  came  that  another 
army  still  more  numerous  drew  near.  This  was  led  by 
Gaiour  king  of  China.  "  I  come,"  said  he  to  Amgrad,  "  in 
search  of  my  daughter  Badoura,  whom  I  gave  in  marriage 
many  years  ago  to  Camaralzaman,  son  of  Schahzaman,  king 
of  Khaledan.  I  have  heard  nothing  of  them  for  a  long  time.  I 
therefore  have  left  my  kingdom,  thus  attended,*to  find  them 
out." 

Amgrad  kissed  the  king's  hand,  and  informed  him  that  ha 
was  his  grandson.  Gaiour,  greatly  rejoiced  at  this  unexpected 
meeting,  ordered  his  troops  to  pitch  their  tents,  and  went  with 
Aongrad  to  the  palace. 

A  great  dust  was  now  seen  to  rise  opposite  another  qi  arter 
of  the  town.  The  princes  immediately  rode  thither,  and  found 
it  was  Camaralzaman,  their  father,  at  the  head  of  a  third  army 
He  had  been  so  afflicted  for  the  loss  of  his  sons,  that  at  last  tht! 
wnir  G>3ndar  ventured  to  tell  him  that  he  had  spared  their 


286  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

Eves,  antf  *hat  they  had  set  forward  for  the  city  of  tK 
Magicians. 

Camaralzaman  embraced  his  children  with  the  most  anima 
ted  affection ;  their  filial  duty  made  them  at  once  lay  aside  the 
remembrance  of  their  former  ill-treatment,  and  return  his 
caresses  with  unfeigned  love. 

A  fourth  army  approached  the  city.  The  venerable  Schah- 
laman  came  thus  attended,  in  search  of  Camaralzaman ;  the 
latter  prince  was  overcome  with  shame  and  grief  on  hear* 
ing  this  account :  he  reproached  himself  with  his  long  neglect 
of  the  good  old  king,  who  yet  retained  so  much  affection  foi 
him  as  to  disregard  the  fatigue  and  perils  of  a  long  and  uncer 
tain  journey  to  find  him  out.  The  king  of  Khaledan  readily 
forgave  him,  and  after  a  few  days'  repose  at  the  city  of  the  Magi- 
cians, (during  which  time  Assad  espoused  the  queen  Margiana,) 
the  princes  set  out  for  their  respective  territories,  and  Amgrad, 
at  the  request  of  the  king  of  the  Magicians,  who  was  very  old, 
ascended  the  throne  of  that  empire,  which  he  filled  with 
great  ability,  distinguishing  himself  particularly  by  his  zeal  in 
exterminating  the  worship  of  fire,  and  establishing  the  Mo- 
hammedan religion  throughout  his  dominions. 

The  Story  of  Noureddin  and  the  Fair  Persian. 

ZINCHI,  the  king  of  Balsora,  held  that  crown  as  tributary  to 
the  caliphs  6*f  Arabia.  The  vassalage  was  so  complete,  that 
the  latter  considered  the  sovereigns  of  Balsora  as  accountabl€ 
to  them  for  every  minute  regulation  in  their  government 
they  were  frequently  reprimanded,  and  sometimes  Dethroned, 
when  their  conduct  did  not  please  the  Commander  of  the  Faith" 
fill. 

The  appearance  of  regal  dignity  was  kept  up,  notwithstand- 
ing the  power  was  so  limited ;  and  Zinchi  being  of  an  indolent 
disposition,  divided  the  office  of  grand  viziei  oetween  his  two 
favorites,  Khacan  and  Saouy,  both  men  of  good  abilities,  but  ot' 
very  opposite  characters.  Khacan  *vas  open,  generous,  affable 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  237 

^rad  of  obliging)  and,  as  a  magistrate,  strictly  impartial ;  lie  was 
universally  respected  and  beloved.  Saouy  was  the  reverse  of 
his  colleague;  sullen,  morose,  haughty,  insatiably  covetous, 
though  immensely  rich,  venal,  and  tyrannical ;  he  was,  of  course, 
generally  detested  ;  and  if  anything  could  add  to  the  popular 
aversion,  it  was  his  declared  enmity  to  Khacan,  the  favorite 
of  the  people. 

Such  were  the  ministers  of  the  indolent  Zinchi,  who,  relying 
on  their  talents,  left  to  them  the  care  of  his  government,  and 
resigned  himself  to  the  gratification  of  his  appetite. 

One  day  the  king  was  discoursing  with  his  viziers  and  great 
men  about  women.  Some  were  of  opinion  that  if  a  woman 
had  great  beauty  and  accomplishments,  it  was  as  much  as  a 
man  need  desire.  Saouy  was  an  advocate  for  this  doctrine ; 
but  Khacan  supported  very  contrary  ideas,  and  described  so 
feelingly  that  love  which  is  founded  on  esteem,  that  the  king 
declared  himself  of  his  opinion ;  and  as  Khacan,  in  the  course 
of  his  argument,  had  supposed  a  woman  might  unite  the  more 
valuable  qualities  of  the  heart  with  personal  beauty  and  exte- 
rior graces,  the  king  ordered  ten  thousand  pieces  of  gold  to  be 
paid  him,  and  directed  him  to  use  all  diligence  in  purchasing 
such  a  woman  as  he  had  described. 

When  the  viziers  withdrew  from  the  royal  presence,  they 
were  both  dissatified.  Saouy  was  tormented  at  the  distinction 
with  which  the  king  had  honored  his  rival.  Khacan  was  ex 
ceedingly  grieved  at  receiving  a  commission  which  he  appre- 
hend ea  would  involve  him  in  many  difficulties.  He  imme- 
diately ordered  all  those  persons  who  dealt  in  slaves  to  give 
him  notice  when  any  one  of  superior  beauty  and  merit  fell  in 
their  way.  For  a  long  time  his  inquiries  were  in  vain  :  at 
l^t  a  Persian  merchant  produced  a  slave  whose  beauty  and 
accomplishments  were  in  the  highest  perfection. 

The  vizier  paid  the  price  demanded  for  her  by  the  mer- 
chant, though  it  exceeded  the  sum  deposited  in  his  hands  by 
thf  king.  When  he  was  about  to  conduct  her  to  the  palace, 
Mie  merchur*.  advised  him  to  take  her  home,  and  let  hei  n* 


ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

s  for  a  few  days  after  her  long  journey,  before  ut  intro- 
duced her  to  his  sovereign ;  assuring  him  that  both  her  beaut) 
and  sprightly  turn  would  appear  to  greater  advantage  when 
she  had  recovered  from  her  fatigue.  Khacan  approved  of  tbi,* 
advice,  and  accordingly  placed  her  in  the  care  of  his  wife,  and, 
at  the  same  time,  acquainted  the  lovely  Selima,  (which  was 
her  name,)  with  the  honor  that  awaited  her. 

The  vizier  had  an  only  son  named  Noureddin,  —  a  forward 
fouth,  of  good  parts  and  handsome  person,  —  of  whom  his 
mother  was  so  fond,  that  she  still  continued  to  allow  him  thes 
liberty  of  the  women's  apartments,  though  the  time  of  shutting 
him  out  was  several  years  past.  Noureddin  no  sooner  saw 
the  beautiful  Selima,  than  he  became  a  captive  to  her  charms. 
Though  he  knew  his  father  had  purchased  her  for  the  king, 
yet  he  resolved  to  run  all  hazards  rather  than  not  secure  her 
to  himself;  nor  did  the  fair  Persian  see  Noureddin  with  indif- 
ference. Whatever  honor  or  splendor  she  might  hope  from 
being  the  king's  mistress,  she  would  gladly  have  renounced 
them  to  pass  her  life  with  the  son  of  the  vizier. 

Selima,  having  reposed  for  several  days,  the  minister  direct- 
ed a  costly  bath  to  be  prepared  for  her,  intending  to  present 
he?  next  day  to  his  master.  As  these  baths  were  seldom  pre- 
pared, the  vizier's  lady  ordered  her  slaves  to  get  bathing  cloths 
ready  for  her,  intending  to  enjoy  the  bath  herself  when  Selima 
had  left  it.  All  these  particulars  Noureddin  learnt  from  a 
slave  whom  he  had  corrupted.  Reduced  to  despair,  he  re- 
Bolved  to  attempt  an  adventure  the  most  audacious  that  could 
be  imagined.  He  concealed  himself  in  the  women's  apartments, 
till  Selima  returned  to  her  chamber,  and  his  mother  went  to 
the  bath.  He  then  visited  the  fair  Persian ;  and  having  dis- 
missed her  attendants,  boldly  told  her  that  his  father  had 
altered  his  intention,  and  instead  of  presenting  her  to  the  king, 
bad  given  her  to  him.  The  lovely  slave  wished  this  to  bo 
true,  and  was  not  therefore  disposed  to  doubt  it. 

Khacan  was  equally  enraged  and  distressed,  when  he  neard 
<f  the  violation  his  son  had  committed.     Besides  being  disap 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  23$ 

pointed  in  presenting  so  beautiful  a  slave  to  his  master,  hf 
was  terrified  lest  his  enemy  Saouy,  should  oome  to  a  know! 
edge  of  an  affair,  by  which  he  might  effect  his  destruction. 
He  ordered  the  merchants  to  renew  their  search,  declaring 
that  the  fair  Persian  by  no  means  answered  his  expectation 
he  frequently  complained  to  the  king  of  the  many  difficulties 
he  found  in  executing  his  commission ;  in  short,  he  managed 
the  business  with  so  much  address,  that  Z  Lchi  insensibly  for« 
got  it ;  and  though  Saouy  got  some  impenect  information  of 
the  transaction,  yet  Khacan  was  so  much  in  the  king's  favor, 
that  he  was  afraid  to  speak  of  it. 

It  was  a  long  time  before  the  vizier  would  suffer  his  son  to 
appear  in  his  presence ;  but  time,  which  subdues  all  things,  at 
length  softened  his  anger ;  and  as  the  virtues  of  Selima  engaged 
his  esteem,  he  resolved  to  give  her  to  Noureddin,  if  he  would 
promise  not  to  look  upon  her  as  a  slave,  but  as  a  wife.  He 
stipulated  also  with  the  young  man,  that  he  would  never  be 
divorced  from  her,  much  less  sell  her.  With  these  conditions 
Noureddin  joyfully  complied;  and  the  peace  of  the  vizier's 
household  was  restored. 

Very  soon  after  these  events,  Khacan  was  seized  with  a 
dangerous  illness,  which  soon  put  an  end  to  his  life.  When 
he  was  on  his  death-bed,  he  renewed  his  injunctions  to  his 
son,  never  to  part  with  the  fair  Persian.  Noureddin  did  not 
nesuaig  to  avow  the  most  dutiful  obedience. 

For  a  time  Noureddin  lamented  his  father  sincerely ;  but 
the  gaiety  of  youth  soon  recurred ;  and  when  he  found  himself 
possessed  of  immense  riches,  he  resolved  to  make  himself 
amends  for  the  restraint  he  had  been  under,  by  gratifying 
every  wish  of  his  heart.  He  gave  the  most  magnificent  and 
luxurious  entertainments,  and  drew  about  him  a  society  of 
gay  companions,  among  whom  he  dissipated  his  fortune  wit} 
an  incredible  profusion.  These  parasites  perpetually  surround 
ed  him.  In  vain  the  fair  Selima,  (whom  he  continued  to  love 
«mh  undiminished  ardor,)  gently  remonstrated  with  him  on 
Uis  too  abundant  generosity ;  in  vain  his  careful  steward 


240  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

to  him,  that  such  excess  would  soon  empty  a  royal  treasury 
Ho  continued  his  extravagant  mode  of  living,  and  lavished 
away  large  sums  in  presents  to  his  companions. 

Nothing  contributed  so  much  to  the  ruin  of  Nourredin's  for 
June  as  his  unwillingness  to  look  into  his  accounts.  When- 
ever his  steward  came  to  lay  before  him  a  state  of  his  disburse- 
ments, he  always  put  him  aside  with  a  jest,  or  drove  him  awav 
with  anger. 

One  morning,  while  he  was  surrounded  by  the  tribe  oi 
greedy  sycophants  who  generally  beset  him,  his  steward  pre- 
sented himself  before  him,  and  requested  permission  to  speak 
with  him  alone.  The  air  and  manner  of  the  steward  when  he 
made  this  request,  indicated  something  unusual  and  disagree- 
able. Noureddin  withdrew  with  him ;  and  one  of  the  company, 
more  curious  than  the  rest,  followed  them  out,  and  so  placed 
himself  that  he  could  hear  all  that  passed  between  them  unob- 
served. 

The  steward  began  with  lamenting  that  he  had  so  often  in 
vain  remonstrated  with  him.  Noureddin  endeavored  to  silence 
him,  but  he  would  be  heard.  "  The  time  is  now  come/'  said 
he,  "  that  you  must  listen  to  me.  Of  all  that  mass  of  wealth 
which  came  into  your  possession  a  year  ago,  the  few  pieces  in 
my  hand  are  the  whole  remainder ;  your  entertainments  there- 
fore must  be  at  an  end,  or  you  must  provide  me  with  a  fresh 
supply."  Noureddin,  who  had  been  overwhelmed  by  the  first 
part  of  this  conversation,  began  to  revive  at  this  latter  hint. 
u  You  shall  not  long  want  that  supply,"  said  he,  "  I  have  many 
friends  at  this  time  in  my  house,  who  will  rejoice  to  satisfy 
my  occasions." 

The  listener,  having  heard  thus  much,  withdrew ;  and  return 
uig  to  his  companions,  repeated  what  had  passed.  He  had 
scarce  made  an  end  of  his  account,  when  Noureddin  entered 
the  room  also. 

Noureddin  appeared  with  an  affected  air  of  pleasantry  which 
ill  concealed  the  anguish  of  his  mind.  He  was  considering 
whether  it  would  be  better  to  declare  his  necessities  to  hi« 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  241 

friends  now  they  were  together,  or  appl}1  to  them  separately 
when  one,  whom  he  had  ever  most  distinguished,  rose  up,  and 
making  a  slight  apology,  withdrew. 

Noureddin,  without  well  knowing  why,  was  much  affected 
at  this.  The  person  who  went  away  was  his  favorite  compan- 
ion, had  been  enriched  by  his  bounty,  and  was  always  one  of 
the  last  who  left  him.  While  his  mind  teemed  with  these 
uneasy  reflections,  another,  the  most  servile  and  cringing  of 
the  get,  in  a  pert  and  careless  manner,  bade  him  good  morn- 
ing. The  others  soon  followed ;  and  in  a  very  short  time  he 
was  left  by  himself. 

The  young  man  passed  the  rest  of  the  day  in  melancholy 
reflections  on  his  imprudence.  He  determined  at  length  to 
borrow  a  certain  sum  from  each  of  his  companions,  with  which 
he  would  go  to  some  other  city,  and  commence  merchant.  As 
there  was  not  one  among  them  who  had  not  received  tenfold 
more  from  his  bounty  than  he  meant  to  ask,  he  would  not 
suffer  the  idea  of  a  refusal  to  disturb  him.  Having  thus  set- 
tled a  plan  for  his  future  conduct,  his  mind  became  more  calm, 
and  he  withdrew  to  Selima's  apartment,  to  whom  he  related 
his  situation  and  intention. 

The  day  following,  he  set  out  to  visit  his  dear  and  devoted 
friends ;  but  was  so  unfortunate  as  not  to  find  any  of  them  at 
home.  One,  indeed,  convinced  him  he  was  not  abroad ;  for  he 
heard  him  direct  his  slave  to  say  he  was  not  at  home,  adding, 
"  whenever  that  extravagant  fellow  comes  here,  give  him  the 
same  answer." 

Noureddin  was  equally  enraged  and  ashamed.  He  was 
giving  way  to  despair,  when  the  fair  Persian  advised  him  to 
dismiss  his  household,  sell  his  slaves  and  furniture,  and  try  ii 
Le  could  not  raise  money  enough  from  them  to  carry  his  plan 
into  execution.  Noureddin  embraced  this  prudent  council 
but  even  in  this  commendable  scheme  he  was  disappointed. 
Being  obliged  to  sell,  —  his  goods  did  not  fetch  him  half  their 
value;  and  a  fit  of  sickness,  the  consequence  of  his  vexa- 
tion and  former  irregularities,  held  him  so  long,  that,  on  hif 

21 


242  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

recovery,  h(    found  the   whole  produce  of  the  ;alb  was  ei 
pended. 

In  this  extremity  of  distress,  he  once  more  had  recourse  to 
the  advice  of  his  beloved  Selima,  who,  seeing  no  other  means 
of  relief  within  his  reach,  reminded  him  how  much  money  hia 
father  had  paid  for  her.  "  I  am  your  slave,"  said  she ;  "  you 
have  a  right  to  dispose  of  me ;  and  how  much  soever  I  shall 
suffer  from  such  an  event,  I  advise  you  to  sell  me ;  and  I 
heartily  wish  you  may  not  lose  much  of  the  sum  your  father 
gave  for  me." 

Noureddin  could  not  hear  this  advice  without  feeling  the 
keenest  anguish.  Not  only  his  love  for  the  fair  Persian  re- 
volted at  such  an  idea,  but  the  remembrance  of  his  promise  to 
his  father  never  to  part  with  her,  rose  in  his  mind,  and  made 
him  think  of  such  a  measure  with  additional  regret.  But  in- 
vincible necessity  must  be  submitted  to.  He  led  her,  with 
inexpressible  reluctance,  to  the  market  where  women  slaves  are 
exposed  to  sale,  and  applied  to  a  crier,  named  Hagi  Hassan, 
to  sell  her. 

The  crier  immediately  knew  the  fair  Persian  was  the  *ame 
slave  that  Khacan  had  bought  at  so  very  high  a  price.  He 
went  directly  among  the  merchants,  where  he  exclaimed,  with 
great  gaiety,  "  My  masters,  everything  that  is  round  is  not  a 
nut ;  everything  that  is  long  is  not  a  fig ;  all  that's  red  is  not 
flesh ;  and  all  eggs  are  not  fresh.  You  have  seen  and  bought, 
no  doubt,  many  slaves  in  your  time ;  but  you  never  saw  one 
comparable  to  her  I  have  now  to  sell.  Follow  me,  and  see 
her ;  and  then  name  the  price  I  ought  to  cry  her  at." 

The  merchants  were  surprised  when  they  saw  her;  and  all 
agreed,  that  Hagi  Hassan  ought  not  to  begin  with  a  less  s  IUB 
than  four  thousand  pieces  of  gold.  He  began  to  cry  her,  ac 
cordingly,  at  that  price ;  when  the  vizier  Saouy  chanced  to 
enter  the  market,  nnd  hearing  so  large  a  sum  asked  for  a  female 
slave,  demanued  to  see  her. 

It  was  a  privilege  the  merchants  of  Balsora  enjoyed,  ttu»l 
•">  r^rson  should  see  a  slave,  till  they  had  offered  the 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  24t) 

tley  chose  to  give.  After  which  any  person  might  see  Jer 
and  if  the  stranger  offered  more  money  than  the  highest  bid 
der  among  the  merchants,  he  was  declared  the  purchaser. 

But  Saouy  regarded  no  man's  privilege.  He  demanded  to 
gee  the  fair  slave  immediately ;  and  finding  her  more  beautiful 
than  he  had  imagined,  he  looked  sternly  on  the  merchants, 
and  said,  "  I  will  give  the  sum  you  ask  for  this  slave !  "  No 
one  durst  bid  more  than  the  overbearing  vizier.  The  mezv 
chants  were  obliged  to  submit  to  this  arrogant  interference 
and  causing  the  fair  Persian  to  be  locked  up,  waited  at  the 
door,  and  directed  Hagi  Hassan  to  go  immediately  and  find 
the  seller. 

Noureddin  had  retired  out  of  the  market,  to  indulge  hia 
sorrow  unobserved,  but  had  told  the  crier  where  he  might  be 
found.  Hagi  Hassan  went  to  him,  and  related  to  him  all  that 
had  passed.  If  anything  could  have  aggravated  Noureddin's 
affliction,  it  was  that  Saouy  should  become  possessed  of  the 
fair  Persian.  The  sting  of  this  circumstance  made  him  quite 
inattentive  to  the  low  price  for  which  she  was  to  be  sold.  "  I 
swear  to  you,"  replied  he,  "  I  would  sooner  die  than  part  with 
my  slave,  for  ten  times  the  sum,  to  that  enemy  of  our  family ; 
help  me,  I  entreat  you,  good  Hagi,  to  the  means  of  escaping 
this  last  of  misfortunes." 

"  You  must  conduct  yourself  in  this  manner,"  replied  the 
crier,  "  or  the  vizier  will  insist  upon  his  bargain.  When  1 
am  about  to  present  her  to  him,  you  must  catch  her  by  the 
arm  before  he  touches  her.  You  will  then  give  her  two  or 
three  blows,  and  tell  her  that  although  her  bad  temper  made 
you  swear,  that  you  would  expose  her  to  the  indignity  of  being 
cried  in  the  market,  yet  it  is  not  your  intent  to  sell  her.  Pull 
ber  then  again  towards  you,  and  lead  her  away." 

Noureddin  followed  this  advice.  When  Saouy  saw  the  son 
of  Khacan  approach,  and  found  he  was  the  owner  of  the  beau- 
tiful slave,  he  enjoyed  to  the  utmost  his  malicious  triumph, 
&nd  his  disappointment  was  in  proportion,  when  he  heard  hirr 
refuse  to  confirm  the  contract.  He.  called  bim  by  th^  mosl 


244  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

reproachful  names,  and  riding  up  to  the  fair  Persian,  he  %b 

tempted  to  seize  her.  Noureddin  wanted  not  this  provocation 
to  exasperate  him  against  the  vizier.  He  pulled  him  off  hit 
horse,  rolled  him  in  the  kennel,  and  pummelled  his  head  against 
the  stones,  till  he  had  almost  killed  him.  After  which  he 
conducted  the  fair  Persian  home  again. 

Saouy  also  retired,  amidst  the  shouts  and  execrations  of  the 
people,  who  had  prevented  his  attendants  from  assisting  him. 
He  presented  himself  immediately  before  the  king,  all  bloody 
and  dirty  as  he  was,  and  besought  justice.  On  being  ordered 
to  say  on  what  account,  he  reminded  the  king  of  the  commission 
he  had  formerly  given  to  Khacan.  "  I  saw  by  accident  to- 
day," continued  he,  u  a  most  beautiful  slave,  which  the  profli- 
gate Noureddin  was  about  to  sell.  I  had  no  doubt  but  she 
was  the  slave  Khacan  had  bought  for  your  majesty ;  and  would 
have  reclaimed  her  for  you :  it  was  for  this  attempt  that  Nou- 
reddin has  treated  me  thus  cruelly." 

The  king  became  greatly  enraged  on  this  account.  Pie  or- 
dered his  officers  to  seize  Noureddin  and  his  slave,  and  to 
level  his  house  with  the  ground.  One  of  the  royal  attendants, 
who  heard  the  king's  order,  had  been  appointed  to  his  office 
by  the  vizier  Khacan.  Full  of  gratitude  to  the  memory  of 
his  benefactor,  he  ran  to  Noureddin's  house,  and  putting  a 
purse  of  gold  in  his  hand,  told  him  briefly  what  had  happened, 
and  charged  him  to  fly  with  speed ;  as,  if  he  was  taken,  the 
king  was  too  much  enraged  to  hear  him,  and  would  certainly 
put  him  to  death. 

Noureddin  and  Selima  hastened  towards  the  river,  where 
.Ley  found  a  vessel  on  the  point  of  sailing ;  they  embarked 
without  inquiring  whither  she  was  bound,  and  after  a  short 
and  pleasant  voyage  arrived  safely  at  Bagdad. 

When  they  landed,  it  was  evening ;  and  having  no  baggage 
to  take  care  of,  they  rambled  a  considerable  time  about  the 
gardens  that  bordered  on  the  Tigris.  They  came  at  length  to 
a  porch  on  each  side  of  which  stood  a  neat  sofa ;  and  as  thej 
vere  tired  with  their  walk,  they  sat  down  on  these  sofas,  and 
uter  talking  together  IV  som^  time,  they  insensibly  fell  asleep 


ENTERTAINMENTS  24fe 

The  porch  was  the  entrance  to  a  garden  belonging  to  tha 
saliph,  in  which  was  a  beautiful  pavilion  of  pictures.  The 
charge  of  this  garden  and  pavilion  was  committed  to  an  ancient 
officer,  called  scheik  Ibrahim,  with  positive  orders  to  admit 
no  person  into  it,  nor  even  to  sit  on  the  sotas  that  stood  in  the 
porch. 

Scheik  Ibrahim  was  absent  in  the  city  on  business.  On 
his  return,  when  he  found  two  people  sleeping  on  the  sofas,  he 
was  so  enraged,"  that  he  was  going  to  chastise  them ;  but  seeing 
by  the  little  daylight  that  remained,  they  were  both  hand- 
some, and  appeared  above  the  rank  of  the  vulgar,  he  resolved 
to  awaken  them,  and  hear  their  apology.  The  scheik  had 
much  good  nature,  and  more  vanity.  Finding  from  Noured* 
din's  excuse  that  they  were  strangers  of  condition,  and  they 
taking  him  for  the  owner  of  the  garden,  he  resolved  to  humor 
the  mistake ;  he  asked  them  to  walk  in,  and  repose  themselves 
in  a  place  more  suitable. 

They  accepted  his  invitation,  and  he  conducted  them  into 
the  garden,  and  showed  them  the  pavilion ;  the  hall  of  which 
was  adorned  with  fourscore  windows,  and  in  every  window  was 
a  branched  candlestick,  containing  a  considerable  number  of 
wax-lights;  the  pavilion  was  in  every  other  respect  truly 
magnificent. 

Scheik  Ibrahim  was  exceedingly  taken  with  his  guests; 
they  soon  became  familiar  with  each  other,  and  finding  how 
much  they  were  delighted  with  the  hall,  he  determined  they 
should  sup  there.  "  I  came  here,"  said  he,  "  to  pass  the  even- 
ing alone,  and,  therefore,  have  no  slave  to  attend  you ;  but  if 
you  will  give  me  leave  to  wait  on  you,  I  will  supply  all  youi 
wants." 

When  they  had  supped,  Noureddin  dropped  a  hint  that  some 
wine  would  not  be  unacceptable ;  at  which  Ibrahim  started, 
and  said,  "  Heaven  defend  me  from  keeping  wine  in  my  house, 
or  going  to  a  place  where  it  is  sold !  such  a  man  as  I  am,  who 
have  been  four  times  on  a  pilgrimage  to  Mecca,  must  hav3  ro« 
frounced  wine  fortver." 

21* 


146  ARABIAN   NIGHTS" 

*  Notwithstanding  this,"  replied  Noureddin>  "  I  will  aol  b« 
ateprived  of  my  wine ;  be  so  condescending  as  to  go  to  the  d  DOT 
of  a  wine-house,  and  send  in  a  porter  for  some,  which  he  mav 
bring  here;  and  that  you  may  have  the  less -scruple,  it  shall 
not  be  bought  with  your  money."  He  then  put  a  couple  of 
pieces  of  gold  into  the  scheik's  hand,  who,  laughing  in  hia 
turn,  congratulated  his  guest  on  his  invention ;  "  without 
which,"  said  he,  "  I  should  never  have  found  out  a  way  of 
providing  you  with  wine,  and  preserving  my  conscience  in 
violate." 

While  Ibrahim  was  gone,  it  occurred  to  Noureddin  that  all 
this  aversion  to  wine  was  but  hypocrisy,  and  that  his  host 
would  drink  his  cup  as  heartily  as  he  could.  To  try  this,  he 
instructed  Selima  how  to  act ;  and  when  the  wine  came,  he 
filled  three  cups,  and  offered  one  to  Ibrahim.  The  old  man 
started  back,  as  if  with  horror ;  on  which  Noureddin  drank  the 
cup,  and  the  fair  Persian  presented  the  scheik  with  a  slice 
of  apple,  which  he  received  with  great  pleasure. 

As  they  conversed,  Noureddin  pretended  to  fall  asleep. 
Selima  seemed  to  think  he  was  so,  and  presenting  a  cup  of 
wine  to  the  old  man,  she  said,  "  Drink  this  cup  to  my  health, 
and  keep  me  company  while  that  drowsy  sot  sleeps."  Ibrahim 
for  a  little  time  resisted ;  but  overcome  with  her  beauty,  he 
complied.  Soon  after,  he  drank  a  second  cup  with  very  little 
opposition.  He  received  a  third  from  Selima  without  murmur ; 
and  the  fourth,  he  helped  himself  to.  Noureddin  seeing  this, 
burst  out  a  laughing,  saying,  "  Ha !  Ibrahim,  you  are  caught ; 
is  this  the  way  in  which  you  abstain  from  wine  ?"  Ibrahim, 
warmed  with  what  he  had  drank,  and  loving  wine,  threw  aside 
his  reserve,  joined  in  the  laugh,  and  sat  down  very  cordially 
with  his  guests  to  finish  the  bottle. 

While  Noureddin  and  his  host  were  conversing  together, 
Selima,  observing  the  candles  in  the  branches,  and  seeing  the 
room  looked  gloomy,  desired  Ibrahim  to  light  them.  As  he 
was  in  earnest  discourse  with  Noureddin,  he  said  to  her,  jocu- 
->  "  Lady,  you  are  much  the  youngest  light  a  few  of  then 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  24  4 

yourself.'  Sclima  immediately  lit  up  e\ery  candle,  at  tin 
frame  time  opening  the  shutters  of  the  windows. 

When  the  pavilion  of  pictures  was  thus  illuminated,  it  made 
A  very  splendid  appearance.  As  the  caliph  was  retiring  to 
bed,  it  chanced  he  opened  his  casement,  and  seeing  the  illumi- 
nation, he  inquired  of  Giafar  the  cause,  in  a  manner  sufficiently 
expressive  of  his  displeasure.  The  vizier  had  a  particular 
friendship  for  scheik  Ibrahim.  To  shield  him  from  the  anger 
of  the  caliph,  Giafar  invented  a  tale  that  the  scheik  had 
applied  to  him  for  leave  to  celebrate  a  religious  ceremony  in 
the  pavilion,  in  company  with  the  ministers  of  his  mosque. 
The  vizier,  to  secure  his  friend,  said  so  much  upon  the  subject, 
that  he  excited  the  curiosity  of  the  caliph ;  who,  instead  of 
going  to  rest,  ordered  the  disguises  to  be  brought,  in  which  he 
and  Giafar  used  to  go  about  the  city,  and  made  him  and  Mes- 
rour,  with  the  other  slaves  about  him,  go  with  him  to  the  pa- 
vilion. 

Giafar  knew  there  was  not  a  word  of  truth  in  what  he  had 
told  his  master.  He  would  willingly,  therefore,  have  diverted 
the  caliph  from  his  purpose ;  but  in  vain  ;  the  prince  would 
go ;  and  the  vizier,  trembling  for  the  consequences,  was  obliged 
to  attend  him. 

On  their  arrival,  they  found  the  door  of  the  hall  partly  open  ; 
and  the  caliph  approaching,  was  surprised  to  see  a  young  man 
and  woman  of  such  extraordinary  beauty.  He  was  also  much 
displeased  to  see  Ibrahim,  whom  he  had  always  considered  as 
tt  grave,  steady  man,  now  drinking  wine,  and  carousing  to 
excess.  "  Are  these,"  said  he  to  the  vizier,  "  the  ministers  of 
the  mosque  you  told  me  of?" 

At  this  instant,  Selima  took  up  a  lute,  and  began  to  tune  it 
The  caliph  was  exceedingly  fond  of  this  instrument ;  he  again 
drew  near  the  door,  when  the  fair  Persian  played  on  it  so  ad- 
mirably, as  quite  delighted  him.  Returning  to  the  vizier,  he 
said,  "  I  will  forgive  you  all,  if  you  will  contrive  to  introduce 
me  to  this  company,  without  discovering  who  I  am." 

There  was  in  the  gardens  a  fine  canal  which  abounded  witl 


148  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

the  choicest  fish.  The  bold  and  needy  fishermen  of  the  town 
would  often  scale  the  walls,  though  strictly  prohibited,  to  obtain 
some  of  them.  It  occurred  to  the  vizier  that  possibly  he 
might  meet  with  one  of  these  pilferers.  Having  hinted  this 
to  the  caliph,  he  set  out  with  Mesrour,  and  fortunately  found 
one  stripped  to  his  shirt,  and  busily  employed  in  disengaging 
some  fish  from  the  net  which  he  had  just  drawn  on  shore.  At 
the  sight  of  the  caliph's  attendants,  away  ran  the  fisherman, 
leaving  the  fish,  nets,  and  clothes  behind  him.  Giafar  seized 
the  latter,  and  taking  with  him  a  few  of  the  finest  fish,  he 
persuaded  the  caliph  to  assume  the  appearance  of  a  fisherman, 
and  present  himself  as  such  to  Ibrahim  and  his  companions. 

The  caliph  agreed  to  the  proposal ;  but  lest  he  should  be 
exposed  to  any  insult  in  his  own  gardens,  he  sent  away  an 
attendant  for  his  imperial  robes.  He  then  dressed  himself  as 
a  fisherman,  and  entering  the  room  where  Ibrahim  and  his 
guests  were,  he  offered  to  sell  them  his  fish.  The  scheik  waa 
now  drunk.  He  would  have  driven  away  the  supposed  fisher 
man ;  but  Selima  interposed,  and  expressed  a  desire  to  have 
the  fish,  if  they  could  be  dressed  immediately.  "  My  prin 
cess,"  replied  the  old  man,  "  I  have  a  kitchen  below,  where 
this  fellow  may  dress  them  if  he  pleases."  "  I  desire  no  bet- 
ter," replied  the  caliph,  "  and  will  ask  nothing  for  them  if  you 
will  let  me  join  your  company." 

This  being  agreed  to,  the  caliph,  who  took  upon  himself  the 
name  of  Kerim,  withdrew,  and  ordered  the  slaves  who  at- 
tended him  to  dress  the  fish ;  which  being  done,  he  served 
them  up  himself,  and  sat  down  with  the  company.  They  all 
commended  the  fish ;  and  Noureddin,  being  no  less  drunk  than 
his  host,  took  out  his  purse  of  gold,  and  threw  it  at  the  supposed 
fisherman  as  a  reward;  nor  was  this  all,  for  when  Selima 
had  sung  another  song,  with  which  Kerim  expressed  himself 
highly  delighted,  Noureddin  told  him  he  was  an  honest  fellow, 
and  as  he  liked  the  slave,  she  was  at  his  service ;  he  would 
make  him  a  present  of  her.  Having  said  this,  he  arose  and 
was  about  to  take  up  his  robe  and  depart. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  24* 

Selima  in  vain  entree  /d  her  unworthy  master  to  recall  his 
rash  gift.  He  reproached  her  as  the  cause  of  all  Ids  misfor 
tunes.  The  caliph  was  astonished  at  what  had  passed ;  and 
while  the  fair  Persian  retired  to  a  sofa  tc  vent  her  grief,  he 
requested  Noureddin  to  relate  his  story. 

The  young  man  complied ;  and  the  caliph  found  from  his 
narrative,  that  though  his  new  acquaintance  had  been  led  aside 
by  youthful  indiscretion,  which  deserved  correction,  yet  king 
Zinchi,  and  his  vizier  Saouy,  had  been  guilty  of  oppression 
and  injustice.  He  considered  that  the  folly  of  Noureddic 
had  brought  a  severe  distress  upon  him ;  while  the  king  of 
Balsora,  influenced  by  his  minister,  had  abused  the  authority 
delegated  from  him,  with  impunity. 

He  determined,  therefore,  to  punish  their  injustice,  by  the 
very  man  who  had  been  the  victim  of  it.  He  wrote  an  order  to 
Zinchi  to  abdicate  his  throne,  and  place  Noureddin  on  it.  He 
added  also  a  set  form  of  words  in  the  margin  of  the  letter, 
which  denoted  his  insisting  on  punctual  and  immediate  obedi- 
ence. This  he  put  into  Noureddin's  hands,  and  advised  him  to 
return  with  it  to  Balsora.  "  I  am  not  unknown,"  said  he  u  to 
Zinchi ;  we  weuc  school-fellows :  though  this  letter  is  given 
you  by  a  person  so  obscure,  yet,  depend  upon  it,  when  the  king 
receives  it,  he  will  do  you  justice." 

An  air  of  authority,  which  broke  forth  while  the  caliph  said 
this,  had  great  influence  with  Noureddin ;  and  as  his  situation 
was  desperate,  he  ventured  on  a  desperate  undertaking ;  he  rose 
up,  and  without  taking  leave  of  Selima,  who  was  overwhelmed 
with  grief,  he  went  on  board  a  vessel,  and  sailed  for  Balsora. 

A  ridiculous  scene  now  took  place  between  the  drunken 
Ibrahim  and  the  supposed  fisherman.  u  You  have  been  well 
paid  for  your  paltry  fish  by  that  prodigal,"  said  Ibrahim,  "  but 
I  shall  not  suffer  you  to  keep  all  he  has  given  you.  I  am  con- 
tent to  divide  the  money  with  you ;  but  the  beautiful  slave  1 
will  keep  entirely  to  myself."  The  caliph  refused  him  in  a 
laughing  answer,  which  so  enraged  Ibrahim,  that  he  withdraw 
•a  baste  to  fetch  a  cane  to  chastise  the  insolent  Kerim. 


£50  ARABIAN   NIGHT4' 

As  soon  as  Ibrahim  had  left  the  hall,  the  caliph  gav<?  a  sig 
nal  for  his  attendants  to  enter.  They  instai  tly  took  away  the 
fisherman's  garb,  and  dressed  him  in  the  royal  robes ;  and 
wLen  Ibrahim  returned,  staggering  and  muttering  curses  ancf 
threat  t  nings  against  the  unreasonable  fisherman,  he  was  amazed 
to  find  in  his  room  the  caliph,  attended  by  his  principal  officers, 

The  scheik  stood  aghast  at  a  sight  so  unwelcome,  and  so 
unexpected.  Recollecting  himself,  he  in  the  most  humble 
manner  besought  his  master's  pardon.  The  caliph,  after  giv» 
ing  him  a  good-humored  reprimand,  forgave  him,  and  turning 
to  Selima,  who  had  seen  these  transactions  in  silent  astonish- 
ment, he  exhorted  her  to  take  comfort,  as  Noureddin  would 
soon  be  in  a  situation  to  receive  her  again  in  splendor.  In 
ths  meantime  he  promised  to  place  her  under  the  protection 
of  his  favorite  lady,  Zobeide. 

Noureddin  had  time  enough  during  his  voyage  to  reflect  on 
the  danger  he  exposed  himself  to  by  returning  to  Balsora ; 
but  his  situation  was  so  deplorable  that  he  became  almost  in- 
different to  the  consequence.  On  his  landing,  without  consult- 
ing any  friend,  he  went  directly  to  the  palace,  and  presented 
the  letter  to  Zinchi,  at  the  time  of  public  audience.  Tho 
King's  color  changed  on  reading  it ;  he  was  about  to  obey  the 
caliph's  order,  when  he  thought  of  showing  it  to  his  vizier. 

oaouy  read  it  in  a  transport  of  envy,  rage,  and  despair:  he 
took  care,  however,  to  conceal  these  passions.  An  artful  expe- 
nse™ occurred  to  him  to  postpone  at  least  Noureddin's 
elevation.  He  pretended  to  turn  round  for  better  light,  when 
he  tote  off  the  set  form  in  the  margin  which  he  swallowed  j 
then,  turning  to  the  king,  who  was  in  great  confusion,  he  talked 
with  nmi  in  a  whisper  to  the  following  effect ;  that  the  set 
form  oeing  omitted,  it  was  plain  that  the  caliph  had  only  given 
Noureaain  that  letter  to  get  rid  of  him ;  that  the  patent  had 
lot  beeu  sent,  which  was  itself  sufficient  reason  to  suspend 
>bedience  to  so  strange  an  order.  He  concluded  with  request- 
.kg  Zinchi  to  commit  Noureddin  to  his  custody,  hinting  prettj 
plainly  that  he  should  not  long  be  in  the  king's  way.  Zincbi 


ENTERTAINMENTS  25 1 

0 

consented,  and  Noureddin  was  seized,  loaded  with  chains,  and 
conveyed  to  the  house  of  his  inveterate  enemy,  where  he  was 
treated  with  the  utmost  rigor. 

Noureddin  remained  six  days  in  this  situatic  n,  lamenting 
chiefly  his  own  indiscretion,  in  thus  putting  himself  in  the 
hands  of  his  enemies.  Saouy  did  not  pass  this  time  without 
uneasiness ;  he  dreaded  the  consequence  of  his  bold  measure, 
in  tearing  off  the  most  material  part  of  the  caliph's  letter. 
Though  he  was  impatient  to  deprive  Noureddin  of  life,  ho 
neither  durst  do  so  privately,  as  he  at  first  intended,  nor  was  his 
malice  satisfied  with  less  than  the  shame  of  a  public  execution, 
which  he  could  not  inflict  on  his  own  authority.  Thus  situa- 
ted, he  had  recourse  again  to  artifice ;  and  taking  advantage  of 
Zinchi  being  intoxicated,  he  made  such  a  representation  of 
Noureddin,  that  he  obtained  the  royal  order  to  put  him  to  death 
the  next  day,  in  the  midst  of  the  city. 

At  the  time  appointed,  Saouy  went  in  person  to  the  prison, 
accompanied  by  his  slaves,  with  the  executioner  and  his  at- 
^endants,  and  ordered  the  prisoner  to  be  conducted  to  the 
scaffold,  with  every  possible  circumstance  of  ignominy.  Nou- 
reddin, who  heard  these  barbarous  orders,  exclaimed,  "  Thou 
triumphest  now,  O  mine  enemy ;  but  remember  what  is  writ- 
fen  in  one  of  our  books:  'You  judge  unjustly,  forgetting 
lhat  in  a  little  time  you  shall  be  judged  yourself.' "  "  Fool," 
replied  Saouy,  "  not  to  remember  what  another  of  our  books 
eayeth,  '  What  signifies  dying  the  day  after  the  death  of  one's 
enemy.' " 

Noureddin  was  led  through  all  the  principal  streets  of  the 
dty,  to  a  scaffold  erected  opposite  the  gate  of  the  palace.  The 
fatal  blow  was  about  to  be  struck,  when  a  most  tormenting 
bhirst  oppressed  the  prisoner,  who  earnestly  desired  some 
water,  which  the  people  about  undertook  to  provide.  This 
causing  a  little  delay,  the  vizier  impatiently  called  out  to  the 
executioner  to  perform  his  office.  A  tumult  immediately 
enuued  among  the  people,  who  still  retained  an  affectior  fa 


252  ARABIAN  NIGHTS'  % 

Nojreddin.  and  ever  hated  Saouy.  The  king  himself  wai 
offended  at  the  cruelty  of  his  minister,  and  gave  a  signal  tu 
luspend  the  execution.  At  this  instant,  a  troop  of  horse  came 
jtallopmg  full  speed  towards  the  palace,  at  the  head  of  whom 
tppeared  Giafar. 

The  instant  Saouy  saw  the  grand  vizier,  he  again  pressed 
the  execution  of  the  prisoner,  which  Zinchi  with  high  indignar 
tion  again  forbade.  When  the  caliph's  minister  reached  th« 
palace,  he  ordered  Noureddin  to  be  released,  seized  Saouy, 
and  the  same  hour  set  out  again  for  Bagdad,  taking  Zinchi 
and  Noureddin  with  him,  and  leading  Saouy  thither  prisoner, 
bound  with  the  same  chains  he  had  lately  imposed  on  the 
unfortunate  Noureddin. 

The  sudden  and  timely  appearance  of  Giafar,  was  caused 
by  the  caliph  accidentally  hearing  Selima  accompanying  her 
lute,  in  the  apartments  of  Zcbeide ;  this  brought  to  his  recol- 
lection that  he  had  not  sent  to  Balsora  the  patent  confirming 
Noureddin  king  in  the  room  of  Zinchi.  Giafar  was  immedi- 
ately despatched  with  it  in  all  haste ;  and  arrived  just  in  time 
M  prevent  the  effect  of  Saouy's  malice. 

On  his  return  to  Bagdad,  Giafar  introduced  them  to  th« 
caliph,  who,  having  examined  into  everything,  told  Noureddin 
he  was  at  liberty  to  revenge  his  sufferings,  by  depriving  hia 
enemy  of  his  head.  The  young  man,  generous  in  this  instance, 
was  satisfied  with  having  Saouy  in  his  power ;  he  even  en- 
treated the  caliph  to  pardon  him.  Haroun  Alraschid  highly 
commended  his  manly  and  liberal  behavior,  but  added,  "  though 
it  is  right  in  you  to  forgive  a  private  injury,  it  would  ill 
become  me  to  pardon  such  an  abuse  of  authority.  Mercy  to 
eucn  an  offender,  would  be  cruelty  to  my  people."  Saying 
this,  he  ordered  Saouy  to  be  immediately  put  to  death. 

The  caliph  would  have  despatched  Noureddin  to  take  pos- 
session of  the  throne  of  Balsora ;  but  he  declared  that  the 
many  calamities  he  had  met  with  in  that  city,  had  made  it 
aatcful  to  him :  the  caliph,  therefore,  after  a  severe  re 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  253 

permitted  Zinchi  to  re-assume  his  government;  and,  restoring 
Selima  to  Noureddin,  he  gave  him  a  handsome  appointment 
in  his  palace. 


The  Story  of  Beder,  Prince  of  Persia,  and  Giahaure,  Prince&i 
of  SamandaL 

SOME  ages  ago,  Persia  was  governed  by  an  accomplished 
prince,  of  the  name  of  Mirza.  His  great  reputation  kept  his 
neighbors  in  awe ;  his  subjects  were  happy  under  his  govern- 
ment ;  he  kept  up  the  dignity  of  a  sovereign  of  Persia  with 
great  splendor;  his  harem  was  filled  with  beauties  from  all 
parts  of  the  world ;  but  though  he  was  exceedingly  amorous, 
he  had  never  attached  himself  to  any  particular  object,  —  he 
felt  the  necessity  of  something  more  than  mere  personal  beauty 
to  command  his  heart. 

One  day  a  merchant,  who  dealt  in  beautiful  slaves,  arrived 
at  Mirza's  court,  and  acquainted  him  that  he  had  met  with  a 
slave  more  lovely  than  any  he  had  ever  seen.  The  king  de- 
sired to  see  her,  and  was  so  charmed  with  her,  that  he  paid 
the  merchant  the  full  price  he  demanded,  and  gave  him  a  noble 
present  besides. 

The  king  ordered  the  fair  slave  to  be  lodg&d  in  the  most 
elegant  apartments  of  the  harem,  and  directed  the  attendants 
to  behave  to  her  with  the  most  profound  respect.  When  she 
had  reposed  a  few  days,  and  had  recovered  from  the  fatigue 
^of  her  journey,  her  charms  were  so  much  improved,  that  Miiza 
was  quite  enamored  with  her. 

The  fair  slave  rather  endured  than  received  the  caresses  of 
her  royal  master.  She  submitted  herself  to  his  disposal  in 
silence.  The  most  affectionate  endearments  produced  no  al- 
teration in  her  behavior.  She  continued  to  cast  her  eyes  on 
the  ground ;  no*  could  any  entreaties  prevail  with  her  to  utter 
a  single  word.  Mirza,  notwithstanding,  became  so  fond  of 
her,  that  he  dismissed  all  his  other  women,  and  attached  b'm 
telf  entirely  to  her. 

22 


254  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

A  ytar  passed,  during  which  the  fair  slave  observed  th« 
game  obstinate  silence ;  when  one  day,  as  the  king  was  pour 
ing  forth  vows  of  the  most  unalterable  affection,  he  perceived 
that  she  listened  to  him  in  a  different  manner  from  what  she 
had  been  used  to  do  She  held  up  her  head ;  she  smiled,  and 
cast  her  eyes  on  the  king  with  looks  of  love.  Mirza  perceived 
the  alteration  with  as  much  surprise  as  delight ;  he  doubted 
not  but  she  was  going  to  speak ;  he  urged  her,  and  she  fulfilled 
his  expectations  to  this  purpose. 

u  Since  I  have  resolved  to  break  silence,  I  have  much  tc 
say  to  your  majesty  ;  but  let  me,  in  the  first  place,  thank  you 
for  all  the  favors  and  honors  you  have  conferred  upon  me. 
Let  me  inform  you  also  that  I  arn  with  child ;  this  "nduced  me 
to  break  a  silence  I  had  intended  should  have  been  perpetual, 
and  to  love  and  respect  you  as  I  ought." 

Mirza  was  transported  to  hear  she  was  likely  to  make  him 
a  father ;  a  blessing  he  had  despaired  of,  as  none  of  his  mis- 
tresses had  brought  him  an  heir.  In  the  extravagance  of  his 
joy,  he  caused  the  news  to  be  instantly  proclaimed  to  his 
capital ;  he  ordered  the  poor  to  be  relieved,  the  prisoners  set 
at  liberty,  and  every  possible  demonstration  of  joy  to  take 
place  throughout  his  dominions.  Having  given  these  direc- 
tions, he  turned  to  the  fair  slave,  and  tenderly  inquired  intr 
the  cause  of  her  long  silence. 

"  To  account  for  my  conduct,"  said  she,  "  let  me  inform  you, 
sir,  that  though  I  was  reduced  so  low  as  to  be  sold  to  you  for 
a  slave,  I  am  of  royal  blood.  I  have  never  ceased  to  remem- 
ber my  origin,  and  took  care  to  do  nothing  which  should  dis* 
grace  that  birth,  by  giving  anything  like  a  consent  to  what 
befel  me,  in  the  state  to  which  my  misfortunes  had  reduced 
me.  Your  tender  attention  and  respect  shook  this  resolution, 
and  my  being  with  child  by  you  has  entirely  overturned  it. 

"  My  name  is  Gulnare,  of  the  Sea.  My  father  was  one  of 
ihc  most  potent  princes  of  the  ocean.  At  his  death  he  left  his 
kingdom  in  profound  peace  to  my  brother  Saleh  ;  and  I  lived 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  . 

happily  in  his  court,  under  the  protection  of  my  royal  mother, 
who  was  daughter  of  another  puissant  monarch  of  the  sea, 

"  An  ambitious  neighbor,  taking  advantage  of  my  brother'* 
^outh,  and  of  our  too  great  security,  invaded  his  territory  with 
a  mighty  army ;  and  advanced  so  rapidly  to  his  capital,  that 
we  could  scarce  save  ourselves  from  falling  into  his  hands 
We  escaped  to  an  inaccessible  fortress,  with  a  few  trusty  ad- 
herents, and  continued  there  a  long  time,  while  my  brother 
laid  plans  to  drive  out  the  usurper. 

"Saleh  was  very  fond  of  me;  and  as  the  affair  he  was 
about  to  undertake  was  exceedingly  hazardous,  he  wished  to 
pee  me  married  before  he  embarked  in  it.  '  In  the  present 
miserable  condition  of  our  affairs,'  said  he,  '  I  see  no  proba- 
bility of  matching  you  to  any  of  the  princes  of  the  sea ;  I  would 
therefore  wish  you  to  marry  one  of  the  princes  of  the  earth. 
Your  beauty  surpasses  anything  they  ever  saw,  and  a  very 
small  part  of  the  little  wealth  we  have  left  would  be  an  incon- 
ceivable treasure  to  the  greatest  of  them.' 

"  Instead  of  weighing  this  advice  of  my  brother  as  it  de- 
served, I  reproached  him  with  meanness  of  spirit,  in  making 
me  so  degrading  a  proposal.  My  mother  adopting  his  idea, 
I  gave  way  to  my  wounded  pride,  and  with  an  imprudence 
and  want  of  duty  which  youth  could  scarcely  excuse,  I  threw 
myself  out  of  the  protection  of  these  my  natural  and  best 
friends.  As  soon  as  they  had  left  me,  I  gave  a  spring  from 
the  bottom  of  the  sea  to  the  island  of  the  moon.  It  would  be 
tedious  if  I  was  to  relate  to  your  majesty  the  many  distressing 
consequences  of  this  rash  step.  One  disaster  followed  another, 
the  usual  and  just  punishment  of  indiscretion  and  disobedience 
till  I  became  at  length  a  slave,  and  fell  into  your  hands." 

When  Gulnare  had  finished  her  narration,  the  king  of  Pep- 
»ia  embraced  her  with  great  tenderness.  "Your  story,  mj 
charming  princess,"  said  he,  "  has  greatly  excited  my  curiosity, 
which  I  would  beg  of  you  to  gratify,  if  I  was  not  resolved  first 
to  put  you  in  a  situation  more  worthy  of  you."  Mirza  sent 
immediately  ft  r  the  proper  officers,  and  publicly  espoused  tbt 


256  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

beautiful  Gulnare.  causing  her  to  be  proclaimed  queen  ol  i*e< 
%ia,  in  the  most  solemn  manner,  all  over  the  kingdom. 

These  ceremonies  over,  the  king  required  of  his  lovely  brid€ 
a  more  particular  account  of  the  inhabitants  of  the  sea.  "  1 
have  often  heard,"  said  he,  "  that  the  sea  was  peopled,  but  1 
ever  considered  it  as  a  fable,  not  believing  it  was  possible  foi 
human  beings  to  walk  up  and  down,  and  live  entirely  in  tha 
water." 

"  Sir,"  replied  the  queen,  "  we  can  walk  at  the  bottom  of 
the  sea  with  as  much  ease  as  you  do  on  land,  and  breathe  in 
the  water  as  you  do  in  the  air,  yet  it  never  wets  our  clothes. 
Our  faculties  in  general  are  more  perfect  than  yours.  Our 
vulgar  language  is  the  same  that  was  engraven  upon  the  seal 
of  Solomon,  the  son  of  David. 

"  The  water  does  not  obstruct  the  opening  and  shutting  of 
our  eyes.  Our  sight  is  sharp  and  piercing,  and  can  discern 
any  object  in  the  deepest  sea,  as  distinctly  as  upon  land.  We 
have  the  same  succession  of  times  and  seasons  as  you  have, 
and  enjoy  the  light  of  the  same  planets  in  as  great  perfection. 
As  the  sea  is  much  larger  than  the  earth,  so  we  have  many 
more  kingdoms,  all  of  which  have  great  cities,  well  peopled ; 
and  there  are  the  same  varieties  of  manners  and  customs  among 
us,  as  there  are  among  the  nations  of  the  earth. 

"  The  palaces  of  our  kings  and  great  men  are  magnificent, 
beyond  any  idea  you  can  form.  We  have  gold,  as  you  have ; 
but  the  diamonds  and  pearls  which  are  in  most  estimation 
with  you,  would  scarcely  be  worn  by  the  lowest  order  of  our 
people.  We  have  an  incredible  agility  in  transporting  our 
selves  where  we  please,  in  an  instant;  so  that  we  have  no 
occasion  for  carriages  or  horses,  yet  we  use  both  for  splendor 
on  public  occasions. 

"Among  other  things  in  which  we  differ  greatly  from  the 
inhabitants  of  the  earth  is,  the  method  of  delivery  and  manag- 
ing the  women  of  the  sea  in  their  lying  in.  On  this  account 
it  will  be  necessary  to  send  for  my  mother  and  my  cousins  to 
assist  at  my  labor.  I  wish  also  to  be  reconciled  to  my  brother 


ENTERTAINMENTS'  251 

£  beseech  vour  majesty  will  give  me  leave  to  send  for  them 
they  will  be  glad  to  see  me  now  I  am  the  consort  of  so  great  a 
prince,  and  proud  to  pay  their  respects  to  your  majesty." 

The  king  started  at  this  proposal.  "  I  should  rejoice,"  re- 
plied he,  "  to  receive  your  relations ;  but  how  can  they  kno\t 
where  you  are,  unless  you  leave  me  to  go  in  search  of  them  ? 
that  I  cannot  bear  to  think  of."  —  "  Sir,"  said  Gulnare,  with  a 
smile,  "  if  I  have  your  permission  to  send  for  them,  I  need 
not  stir  from  this  it>om.  They  will  be  here  in  a  very  short 
time." 

Mirza  readily  consented,  the  queen  requested  him  to  retire 
to  an  adjoining  closet,  from  whence  he  could  see  her  friends 
without  being  seen  by  them,  till  she  chose  to  introduce  him. 
The  royal  palace  stood  close  to  the  sea ;  the  queen  opened  the 
windows  nearest  to  it,  and,  having  called  for  a  pan  of  fire,  she 
threw  in  some  powder,  and  pronounced  certain  words  over  it. 

Presently  the  sea  appeared  disturbed,  and  in  a  short  time 
opened ;  when  a  tall,  handsome  young  nan,  with  whiskers  of  a 
sea-green  color,  appeared  on  the  surface ;  a  little  behind  him 
was  one  lady,  advanced  in  years,  attended  by  five  beautiful 
young  ones.  The  queen  approaching  the  windows  of  the  apart- 
ment, was  soon  perceived  by  her  relations,  who  came  forward, 
not  walking,  but  carried,  as  it  were,  on  the  surface  of  the 
waves.  When  they  came  near  the  palace,  they  nimbly  leaped 
into  it.  The  whole  company  embraced  Gulnare,  and  tenderly 
reproached  her  with  having  left  them  so  abruptly,  and  kept 
herself  concealed  from  them  so  long.  King  Saleh  also  told 
her  that  he  had  driven  out  the  usurper,  and  seized  his  kingf 
dom,  as  well  as  recovered  his  own. 

Gulnare  received  them  with  great  respect,  and,  in  a  few 
words,  told  them  all  that  had  befallen  her.  "I  could  not," 
added  she,  "  for  very  shame  apply  to  you  while  I  was  bp^jf 
with  difficulties,  which  arose  entirely  from  my  own  impru- 
dence. But  I  am  now  become  the  wife  of  the  greatest  monarch 
of  the  earth ;  who,  in  every  instance,  treats  me  with  the  ut 
most  regard  and  attention." 

22* 


#58  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

A  sumptuous  collation  was  brought  m,  w^hich  the  queei 
requested  her  relations  to  partake  of.  As  *hey  were  prepar- 
ing to  do  so,  the  same  thought  struck  them  all,  that  they  ha£ 
entered  the  palace  of  a  mighty  prince,  and  were  about  to  sit 
down  at  his  table,  without  having  been  introduced  to  him.  A 
sense  of  this  incivility  caused  them  to  blush ;  their  eyes  spar- 
kled, and  they  breathed  flames  of  fire  at  their  mouth  and 
nostrils. 

Gulnare  doubted  not  but  this  sight  would  alarm  her  hus*> 
band ;  and,  as  she  found  her  relations  were  desirous  of  seeing 
him,  she  withdrew  to  the  closet  where  he  was,  and  offered  to 
Introduce  them  to  him.  Mirza  expressed  himself  much  satis- 
fied at  their  arrival,  but  frankly  owned  he  durst  not  trust 
himself  near  people  who  breathed  forth  fire  so  terribly.  Gul- 
nare, laughing,  told  him  that  those  flames  would  cease  when 
they  saw  him ;  and  were  only  a  token  of  their  unwillingness 
to  sit  down  to  table  without  him. 

When  the  queen  had  presented  her  relations  to  the  king  of 
Persia,  and  mutual  compliments  had  passed,  his  apprehen- 
sions were  done  away,  and  he  soon  became  much  attached  to 
his  illustrious  guests.  He  treated  them  many  days  together 
with  the  greatest  magnificence.  In  the  midst  of  these  hours 
of  festivity,  their  joy  was  increased  by  the  queen  being  happily 
delivered  of  a  prince  so  beautiful,  that  they  agreed,  with  one 
voice,  to  call  him  Beder;  which,  in  the  Arabian  language, 
signifies  the  full  moon. 

One  day,  soon  after  the  birth  of  the  prince,  when  Mirza 
and  Saleh  were  visiting  the  queen,  the  latter  took  Beder  from 
his  nurse,  and,  after  caressing  him  and  dancing  him  about  the 
room,  on  a  sudden  he  leapt  out  of  the  window  into  the  sea, 
with  the  child  in  his  arms,  and  disappeared. 

The  king  of  Persia  was  exceedingly  alarmed  when  he  saw 
his  beloved  son,  the  child  of  his  wishes,  thus  snatched  from 
him.  He  concluded  the  infant  must  be  drowned,  and  was 
giving  way  to  despair,  when  Saleh  returned,  with  Beder  in 
tis  arms,  whom  he  restored  unhurt  to  his  nurse.  He  then 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  25$ 

ixplained  to  Mirza  the  reason  of  his  conduct.  "  Children,* 
said  he,  "  born  of  parents  who  are  not  both  inhabitants  of  the 
sea,  have  only  a  few  moments  occurring  once  during  their  early 
infancy,  in  which  the  privilege  of  descending  into  the  regions 
of  the  water  can  be  imparted  to  them.  While  I  was  playing 
with  my  nephew,  I  perceived  those  precious  moments  (soon  to 
pass  away)  were  arrived ;  without  losing  them  to  explain  my* 
self  to  you,  I  pronounced  the  mysterious  words  which  were 
engraven  on  the  seal  of  the  great  Solomon,  the  son  of  David, 
and,  taking  the  prince  with  me  into  the  sea,  I  completed  the 
necessary  rites.  Beder  will  nov~  ^e  able,  when  he  pleases,  to 
plunge  into  the  sea,  and  traverse  the  vast  empires  it  contains 
at  its  bottom. 

'- 1  have,  also,"  continued  he,  "  brought  yo<ir  majesty  a  small 
present,  which  I  request  you  to  accept."  He  then  made  a 
signal,  when  two  men  arose  out  of  the  sea,  bearing  an  im- 
mense coffer,  which  contained  three  hundred  diamonds,  as 
large  as  pigeon's  eggs,  as  many  rubies,  with  emeralds,  and 
pearls  of  the  greatest  value ;  so  that  the  king  of  Persia  was 
absolutely  astonished  at  a  display  of  riches  which  exceeded 
everything  he  had  any  notion  of. 

King  Saleh,  and  the  ladies  of  the  sea  continued  with  Mirza 
and  Gulnare  as  long  as  in  prudence  they  could.  At  length 
they  took  leave,  and  returned  to  their  own  territories.  AD 
affectionate  intercourse  continued  between  them  during  their 
lives ;  and  they  paid  frequent  visits  to  the  court  of  Persia* 

As  Beder  grew  up,  he  appeared  to  be  a  prince  of  great 
hopes.  His  temper  was  benevolent ;  his  talents  brilliant ;  and 
they  were  early  called  into  exercise.  While  he  was  yet  a 
youth,  disease  bore  heavily  on  Mirza,  and  he  became  desirous 
to  withdraw  himself  from  the  fatigues  of  royalty.  He 
resigned,  therefore,  his  crown  to  his  son  ;  and  though  he  sur- 
rived  that  event  but  a  short  time,  yet  he  had  the  satisfaction 
to  see  the  prince  conduct  himself  with  great  ability,  and  to  b* 
Iroated  by  him  with  the  most  perfect  respect  and  duty. 

The  bs*i  of  his  father  was  well  supplied  to  the  youuig  king 


£60  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

by  the  sagacious  councils  of  Gulnare  and  king  Saleh.  Thai 
prince  was  so  attached  to  his  nephew,  that  he  passed  with  hin 
all  the  time  he  could  spare  from  the  care  of  his  own  domin 
ions.  One  day  after  dinner,  Saleh,  in  his  conversation  with 
his  sister  Gulnare,  fell  insensibly  on  the  praises  of  his  nephew 
Beder,  among  his  other  virtues,  had  great  modesty ;  and  noi 
being  willing  either  to  interrupt  his  uncle,  or  to  sit  and  hear 
his  own  applause,  he  arose  from  the  table,  and  withdrew  to  a 
sofa,  where  he  pretended  to  fall  asleep. 

Saleh  continued  the  conversation,  and  told  the  queen  that 
there  was  a  princess  of  the  sea,  who  far  surpassed  all  others  in 
beauty,  whom  he  earnestly  wished  to  be  the  wife  of  Beder  5 
but  that  very  considerable  difficulties  lay  in  the  way  of  obtain- 
ing her  for  him. 

Gulnare  arose  in  haste  to  look  at  Beder ;  who  being  much 
interested  in  the  conversation,  counterfeited  the  most  profound 
sleep.  The  queen,  thinking  him  really  so,  returned  to  her 
seat,  and  Saleh  proceeded  to  tell  her  that  it  was  Giauhara, 
daughter  of  the  king  of  Samandal,  whom  he  thought  of  for 
his  nephew.  "  She  is,"  continued  he,  "  the  most  beautiful  and 
accomplished  princess  that  ever  was  seen  on  the  earth,  or  in 
the  waters.  But  as  her  father  is  insupportably  proud,  looking 
upon  all  others  as  his  inferiors,  it  is  not  likely  he  will  readily 
agree  to  the  alliance." 

Beder  heard  this  discourse  too  attentively  for  his  peace. 
He  became  enamoured  of  the  princess  Giauhara,  of  whose 
beauty  he  conceived  the  highest  opinion ;  and  fearing  lest  the 
king  of  Samandal  should  reject  him,  it  entirely  destroyed  his 
rest!  he  became  absent,  thoughtful,  and  sad.  While  Saleh 
contemplated  this  change  in  his  beloved  nephew  with  great 
Anxiety,  an  accident  revealed  to  him  the  cause  of  it.  Walking 
one  evening  in  the  gardens  of  the  palace,  he  overheard  Beder 
express  his  passion  for  the  unknown  Giauhara,  in  terms  the 
most  vehement. 

Saleh  was  excessively  grieved  at  this  event.  He.  discovered 
nimself  immediately  to  the  young  king  of  Persia,  and  repre 


ENTERTAINMENTS  26. 

Dented  to  him  in  the  strongest  terms  tie  folly  of  devoting  hia 
heart  to  a  lady,  whose  beauty  he  knew  only  by  report.  But 
Beder,  finding  his  secret  thus  unexpectedly  discovered  by  his 
uncle,  avowed  his  attachment,  and  pleaded  the  necessity  of  his 
obtaining  Giauhara  to  preserve  his  life  in  such  pathetic  terms, 
as  entirely  subdued  Saleh.  Beder  perceiving  the  impression 
be  had  made,  pressed  his  uncle  to  take  him  immediately  tc  his 
kingdom  (without  asking  Gulnare's  consent,  of  which  they 
bad  no  hope)  and  set  on  foot  a  treaty  with  the  king  of  Saman- 
dal.  Saleh  agreed ;  and  the  sea,  passing  at  the  bottom  of  the 
gardens,  they  both  plunged  into  it,  and  arrived,  in  a  very  shorf 
time,  at  the  palace  of  the  sea-king. 

Saleh  prepared  a  most  sumptuous  present,  and  set  off  as  soon 
as  possible,  with  a  great  retinue,  for  the  court  of  SamandaL  On 
his  arrival,  the  king  treated  him  with  much  respect,  and 
appointed  a  public  audience,  to  receive  him  in  the  presence  of 
The  whole  court,  the  next  day.  Accordingly  king  Saleh  was 
introduced  in  great  state,  and  placed  on  the  king  of  SamandaP** 
left  hand ;  where,  knowing  the  character  of  the  prince  he  was 
addressing,  he  paid  his  compliments  to  his  royal  host,  in  the 
most  submissive  and  respectful  manner;  and  concluded  by 
directing  his  attendants  to  lay  the  present  they  bore  at  the 
king  of  SamandaPs  feet. 

If  the  vanity  of  that  prince  was  delighted  by  the  abject 
behavior  of  his  brother  king,  his  avarice  was  no  less  gratified 
by  his  present,  which  was  of  immense  value.  He  turned, 
therefore,  towards  his  guest,  and  embracing  him,  requested  to 
know  in  what  manner  he  could  serve  him. 

King  Saleh,  pleased  with  his  gracious  reception,  declared 
that  the  purport  of  his  visit  was  to  solicit  an  alliance  by  mar- 
riage between  the  two  royal  families.  He  had  scarce  pro- 
ceeded thus  far,  when  the  king  of  Samandal  interrupted 
him  by  a  loud  laugh ;  after  which  he  asked  him,  with  much 
contempt,  how  long  he  had  entertained  such  a  chimera  ?  » 
i\ow  he  could  conceive  the  absurd  thought  of  aspiring  t*  sr 
trreat  and  accomplished  a  princess  ? 


62  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 


Saleh  had  submitted  to  humor  the  disposition  tf  tit 
king  of  Samandal,  because  he  feared  that  haughty  prince 
would  bo  with  difficulty  prevailed  on  to  give  his  daughter  to 
Beder  ;  who,  being  only  a  king  of  the  earth,  was  greatly  her 
inferior  ;  but  when  he  found  himself  treated  in  so  contemptuous 
a  manner,  he  was  highly  offended,  and  replied  with  great 
spirit,  "  You  are  mistaken,  sir,  if  you  suppose  I  meant  to  ask 
your  daughter  for  myself;  nor  should  I  have  considered  such 
a  request  as  at  all  aspiring,  being  in  every  respect  your  equal* 
It  is  for  my  nephew,  the  king  of  Persia,  that  I  was  about  U? 
solicit  ;  a  prince  whose  merit  renders  him  a  fit  husband  for  the 
lovely  Giauhara,  and  who,  though  not  a  prince  of  the  sea,  is 
the  most  potent  of  the  kings  of  the  earth." 

The  rage  of  the  king  of  Samandal  at  this  discourse, 
deprived  him,  for  some  time,  of  all  utterance.  At  length  he 
broke  out  in  outrageous  and  injurious  expressions,  unworthy 
of  a  king  :  not  content  with  this,  he  forgot  what  was  due  to 
the  dignity  of  Saleh,  and  to  the  rights  of  hospitality.  He 
called  out  to  his  guards  to  seize  his  guest,  and  cut  off  his 
head. 

The  audience-chamber  became  a  scene  of  the  greatest  con- 
tusion. Saleh  presently  escaped  out  of  the  palace,  at  the 
gate  of  which  he  found  a  thousand  men,  of  his  relations  and 
friends,  well  armed.  The  queen,  his  mother,  considering  how 
few  attendants  he  had,  and  the  reception  he  would  probably 
meet  with  from  the  king  of  Samandal,  had  sent  this  little  troop 
after  him  for  his  protection. 

Saleh  put  himself  at  the  head  of  his  friends,  and,  with  great 
presence  of  mind,  secured  the  avenues  of  the  palace;  and 
entering  again  the  audience-chamber,  he  seized  the  person  of 
the  king  of  Samandal.  His  next  care  was  to  have  secured 
ill  s  princess;  but  on  the  first  alarm,  she.  together  with  her 
attendants,  had  sprung  to  the  surface  of  the  sea,  and  escaped 
co  a  desert  island. 

Meantime,  some  of  Saleh's  attendants,  who  fled  at  the  firsf 
t,  arrived  at  that  king's  capital,  and  spread  a  general  SOD 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  2(fcl 

iternation,  by  relating  the  danger  they  left  him  in.  All  the 
royal  family  were  in  the  deepest  affliction;  but  Beder,  whe 
considered  himself  as  the  cause  of 'his  uncle's  misfortune,  waa 
overwhelmed  with  sorrow  and  confusion.  He  dreaded  the 
reproaches  of  his  grandmother  and  of  the  other  princesses 
he  hastily,  therefore,  darted  from  the  bottom  of  the  sea,  and 
not  knowing  how  to  find  the  way  to  .Persia,  he  arrived  by 
chance  at  the  same  island  where  the  princess  Giauhara  had 
taken  refuge. 

The  prince,  much  disturbed  in  mind,  seated  himself  under  a 
grove  of  trees.  While  he  was  endeavoring  to  compose  him- 
self, he  overheard  the  sound  of  voices  ;  and  drawing  neai  the 
place  they  proceeded  from,  he  saw  a  lady  of  the  most  exqui 
site  beauty,  conversing  with  some  attendants.  Beder  was  quite 
charmed  with  her.  He  listened  to  their  conversation,  and,  to 
his  astonishment,  he  soon  found  that  the  lady  was  the  princess 
to  whose  beauty  he  had  devoted  his  heart,  from  the  account 
he  had  heard  of  it.  He  learnt  also  the  success  of  his  uncle 
Saleh,  and  the  captivity  of  the  king  of  Samandal,  —  whose 
misfortune,  the  charming  princess  dutifully  deplored,  though 
she  expressed  herself  unacquainted  with  the  cause  of  it. 

Beder  was  so  rejoiced  at  meeting  with  his  beloved  Giau 
hara,  that  he  rushed  forward  and  threw  himself  at  her  feet , 
and  as  soon  as  she  had  recovered  her  surprise,  he  related  how 
he  had  become  enamoured  with  her,  who  he  was,  and  concluded 
by  offering  to  attend  her  to  her  father's  court,  where  he  had 
no  doubt  of  being  able  to  re-establish  friendship  between  th* 
two  sea-kings. 

The  princess  was  pleased  with  the  person  and  address  of 
Beder ;  and  when  she  heard  him  relate  how  much  he  haJ 
become  attached  to  her  before  he  had  seen  her,  she  blushed, 
and  listened  to  him  with  great  complacency.  But  when  she 
found  he  was  the  nephew  of  king  Saleh,  and  the  cause  of  the 
insult  her  father  had  received,  and  of  her  own  fright  and  grief], 
she  soon  entertained  very  different  sentiments  respecting  hiia 
m»f>  orave  way  to  the  dictates  of  fury  and  revenge,  which  yt* 


264  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

uhe  had  art  enough  to  conceal.  She  suffered  such  expression! 
of  favor  towards  him  to  escape  her,  seemingly  in  her  confusion, 
that  the  fond  prince  was  enraptured ;  and  by  reaching  forth 
his  hand  to  seize  that  of  the  princess,  he  put  himself  in  her 
power.  She  pushed  him  back,  and  spit  at  him,  saying, "  Wretch, 
quit  the  form  of  a  man,  and  take  that  of  a  white  bird  with  a 
red  bill  and  feet"  The  spell  took  place  directly ;  and  tne 
unfortunate  Beder  became  a  bird  of  that  description.  "  Carry 
him  now,"  said  the  revengeful  Giauhara  to  one  of  her  attend- 
ants, "  to  yonder  solitary  rock,  and  let  him  remain  there,  with- 
out food  or  water,  till  he  perishes." 

The  attendant  to  whom  the  fate  of  Beder  was  committed, 
took  compassion  on  him.  "  How  cruel  it  is,"  thought  she,  "  to 
destroy  so  accomplished  a  prince  ?  my  mistress  will  certainly 
one  day  repent  it."  Without  venturing  to  expostulate  witfi 
Giauhara,  she  took  charge  of  the  bird ;  but  instead  of  carrying 
him  to  the  barren  rock,  she  conveyed  him  to  a  neighboring 
island,  well  planted  and  watered,  where  he  would  have  no 
difficulty  to  find  support. 

While  these  matters  were  transacting,  Saleh,  having  secured 
the  person  of  the  king  of  Samandal,  though  he  treated  him 
with  respect,  determined  to  keep  him  prisoner,  and  to  admin- 
ister the  government  of  his  kingdom  till  Giauhara  should 
return.  This  he  found  no  difficulty  in  accomplishing.  He 
appointed  trusty  officers  for  the  several  departments,  and  then 
returned  to  his  own  kingdom,  where  he  found  all  the  princesses 
of  his  family  in  great  grief  for  the  absence  of  king  Beder. 
But  as  the  inhabitants  of  the  sea  are  too  wise  to  indulge  long 
in  a  fruitless  sorrow,  those  august  persons  soon  comforted  each 
other,  and  waited  for  his  return  with  hope  and  patience. 

Tha  king  of  Persia  still  continued  under  the  force  of  en- 
chantment, and  gathered,  in  the  island  he  was  placed,  that 
subsistence  which  suited  the  form  he  bore.  It  happened  that 
a  peasant,  who  was  skilled  in  taking  birds,  saw  him ;  and  being 
much  pleased  with  his  beauty,  conceived  to  ensnare  him.  He 
tarried  him  to  a  neighboring  city,  where  he  was  offered  a 


ENTfirfU  AJNMENTS.  264 

laige  SUM  for  him  by  a  luxurious  citizen,  who  wished  to  gratify 
his  appetite  with  so  tempting  a  morsel.  The  peasant  refused 
his  offer,  not  doubting  but  the  king  of  that  country  would  be 
glad  to  have  so  rare  and  beautiful  a  bird.  Nor  was  he  mis- 
taken. The  king  paid  him  very  bountifully,  and  immediately 
sent  for  the  queen,  to  present  her  with  his  purchase. 

When  the  queen  entered  the  room  where  the  bird  was,  she 
let  fall  her  veil,  and  told  the  king  that  it  was  a  prince  of  illus- 
trious descent  he  had  purchased  under  that  form.  She  then, 
at  her  husband's  request,  took  some  water  in  a  cup,  and,  by 
muttering  some  words  over  it,  caused  it  to  boil.  This  she 
sprinkled  on  the  bird,  saying, "  By  virtue  of  the  holy  and  mys- 
terious words  I  have  pronounced,  resume  the  form  in  which 
thou  wast  created."  Immediately,  the  bird  vanished,  and  a 
handsome  young  man  paid  the  warmest  thanks  to  his  royal 
benefactors. 

The  king,  having  heard  Beder's  story,  embraced  and  con- 
gratulated him,  offering  him  every  service  in  his  power.  "  As 
you  are  not  at  so  great  a  distance  from  your  own  kingdom," 
eaid  he  to  the  king  of  Persia,  "  your  power  of  conveying 
yourself  through  the  sea  is,  at  present,  of  very  little  service  to 
you,  for  how  will  you  find  your  way  through  it  ?  You  had 
better,  therefore,  embark  in  some  of  the  vessels  which  sail  from 
hence  to  some  country  nearer  your  own." 

Beder  followed  this  advice ;  but  when  the  ship  had  nearly 
completed  her  voyage,  a  violent  storm  drove  her  out  of  hei 
course ;  and  as  she  approached  the  shore  of  an  unknown  land, 
ehe  struck  against  a  hidden  rock,  and  beat  to  pieces.  The 
CFBW  all  perished ;  but  the  king  of  Persia  threw  himself  into 
the  sea,  and  reached  the  shore  without  difficulty.  As  he  ap- 
proached the  city,  he  was  met  by  a  great  number  of  animals ; 
horses,  camels,  mules,  asses,  and  other  beasts,  who  crowded 
together  before  him,  and  seemed  to  oppose  his  entering  it.  Ha 
forced  his  way  through  them  ;  and  on  entering  the  city,  found 
the  streets  spacious  and  well  built.  He  proceeded  a  consider- 
able way  without  meeting  with  any  one,  and  came  at  last  tc 

23 


£G6  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

shops,  in  one  of  which  he  saw  an  old  man,  whom  hu  courteous 
\y  saluted. 

The  old  man  started  at  the  sight  of  the  prince,  and,  wilhoui 
answering  his  compliment,  pressed  him  to  come  into  his  house, 
Beder,  though  surprised  at  his  earnestness,  complied :  when 
the  old  man  congratulated  him  that  he  had  obtained  that  shel- 
ter, before  any  misfortune  had  befallen  him,  —  asking,  at  the 
same  time,  what  business  brought  him  to  that  city,  and  whether 
he  had  met  any  body  in  his  walk  thither. 

Beder  told  his  host  what  had  happened  to  the  ship ;  and 
added,  "  that  he  met  no  man  in  his  way  from  the  sea,  but  had 
been  strangely  opposed  by  a  number  of  animals  of  different 
sorts." 

"  Those  animals  were  much  your  friends,"  replied  Abdallah, 
which  was  the  name  of  the  old  man ;  a  this  city  is  called  the 
city  of  enchantments ;  it  is  governed  by  a  queen,  named  Labe, 
who  is  one  of  the  most  charming  and  most  wicked  of  her  sex ; 
inconstant,  cruel,  treacherous,  and  a  sorceress.  All  those  ani- 
mals were  once  young  men,  strangers  like  you,  whom  she  has 
transformed  by  her  diabolical  art.  She  has  regular  patrols 
who  go  about  the  avenues  of  the  city,  and  seize  all  strangers, 
either  coming  in  or  going  out  of  it.  They  are  carried  before 
'.he  queen,  and  if  she  fancies  either  of  them,  he  is  clothed  in 
magnificent  apparel,  treated  as  a  prince,  caressed  by  the  queen, 
who  gives  him  such  proofs  of  affection,  as  to  make  him  con* 
elude  she  loves  him  entirely.  This  happiness  is  not  permitted 
to  last  long ;  for  within  forty  days  he  is  sure  to  lose  the  human 
*hape  and  become  a  brute." 

The  king  of  Persia  heard  this  account  with  much  concern: 
rt  How  unfortunate  am  I ! "  said  he  aloud,  scarce  freed  from 
<*ne  enchantment,  which  I  remember  with  horror,  I  am  now 
exposed  to  another  yet  more  terrible."  Having  said  this,  he 
v<  iry  frankly  told  his  host  who  he  was,  and  fvhat  had  befallen 
.*im,  and  requested  his  advice  how  to  conduct  himself*  hi  hifc 
present  perilous  situation. 

*  Prince,"  replied  Abdallah,  "  the  wise  man,  and  the 


ENTKK'iAINMENTb.  261 

Mussulman,  will,  in  all  disastrous  events,  look  about  for  tuck 
circumstances  as  most  alleviate  distress,  and  from  them  wil) 
collect  courage  and  resignation  to  the  will  of  heaven.  Jt  i» 
true,  you  are  unfortunate  in  arriving  at  this  city ;  but  theD 
your  having  missed  the  patrols,  and  your  applying  to  me,  are 
hfcppy  events.  Know  that  there  is  no  person  in  her  domin- 
ions, whom  Labe  treats  with  so  much  respect  as  myself;  the 
cause  of  which  is,  that  she  well  knows  she  has  much  reason  to 
fear  me.  It  would  be  too  bold  a  risk  to  attempt  to  get  out  of 
the  city  yet ;  reside  a  little  time  with  me  ;  I  will  give  out  that 
you  are  my  nephew,  which  will  secure  you  the  civilities  of  the 
citizens,  and  you  will  not  be  considered  as  a  stranger ;  and 
though  it  will  not  protect  you  wholly  from  the  queen,  it  will 
tit  least  make  her  cautious  how  she  behaves  to  you.'* 

The  king  of  Persia  thankfully  accepted  this  offer.  As  Ab- 
dallah  knew  it  would  be  impossible  to  conceal  his  guest  from 
observation,  he  let  him  appear  openly ;  and,  on  all  occasions, 
spoke  of  him  as  his  nephew.  Near  a  month  had  passed,  when 
Beder,  being  at  the  door,  saw  a  very  splendid  procession  ap- 
proaching ;  he  asked  his  host  what  it  meant.  "  The  queen  is 
coming  by,"  answered  he,  "  but  do  you  stand  still,  and  fear 
nothing." 

A  thousand  of  the  queen's  guards,  clothed  in  purple,  armed 
and  well  mounted,  marched  first,  with  their  sabres  drawn ; 
then  followed  the  like  number  of  eunuchs,  habited  in  rich 
brocades ;  next  came  as  many  young  ladies  on  foot,  splendidly 
dressed,  and  marching  slowly,  with  half  pikes  in  their  hands ; 
in  the  midst  of  them  appeared  qusen  Labe,  on  a  horse  all 
glittering  with  diamonds,  with  a  gold  saddle,  and  housing  of 
inestimable  value.  All  the  retinue,  as  they  passed,  saluted 
Abdallah ;  and  the  queen,  when  she  came  to  his  shop,  stopped 
to  speak  with  him. 

At  the  sight  of  Beder,  the  queen  complimented  Abdallah  o* 
his  possessing  so  handsome  a  slave.  •  The  old  man  told  her  he 
was  a  nephew,  whom  he  had  adopted  as  a  son.  "  I  will  then/ 
the  queen,  « for  your  sake,  make  him  as  gr<-at  and 


268  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

powerful  as  ever  a  private  man  was ;  LSI  him  join  my  train 
Abdallah,  with  great  respect,  besought  her  to  excuse  him ;  but 
Labe,  having  gazed  earnestly  on  the  prince,  became  much 
pleased  with  him,  and  very  importunate  with  the  old  man  to 
part  with  him.  Abdallah  was  exceedingly  grieved  for  king 
Beder ;  but  finding  the  queen  would  not  be  refused,  he  con- 
sented, on  condition  his  supposed  nephew  might  pass  one  day 
more  with  him. 

Most  part  of  this  day  he  passed  in  comforting  the  king  of 
Persia,  who  was  in  despair  when  he  found  he  should  be  in  the 
power  of  the  sorceress.  Abdallah  recommended  to  him  to 
place  no  confidence  in  the  queen's  professions,  but  to  watch 
her  with  the  most  jealous  attention,  and  if  anything  happened 
which  appeared  alarming,  to  consult  him  immediately. 

The  next  day  Labe  came,  with  her  usual  train,  to  conduct 
Beder  to  her  palace.  As  soon  as  she  arrived  at  Abdallah's 
house,  he  went  up  to  her  and  said,  "  Puissant  queen,  I  conjure 
you  to  lay  aside  the  secrets  of  that  art  you  possess  in  so 
wonderful  a  degree ;  respect  my  nephew  as  my  own  son ;  and 
you  will  reduce  me  to  the  utmost  despair  if  you  should  think 
fit  to  deal  with  him  as  you  have  done  with  others."  "  I  un- 
derstand you  very  well,"  replied  the  queen,  "  and  swear  to  you 
by  the  fire,  and  the  light,  and  by  whatsoever  is  sacred  in  my 
religion,  that  neither  you  nor  he  shall  have  cause  to  repent 
your  compliance  with  my  desire."  She  then  ordered  a  horse 
to  be  brought  for  the  prince,  as  richly  caparisoned  as  her  own, 
and  caused  him  to  be  placed  at  her  left  hand.  As  he  was 
mounting,  she  asked  Abdallah  what  was  the  name  of  his  nephew  ? 
and  being  told  Beder  (the  full  moon),  her  majesty  replied, 
u  Sure  it  was  a  mistake ;  he  ought  to  have  been  called  Shems 
^the  sun). 

When  they  arrived  at  the  palace,  the  queen  conducted  Beder 
through  the  apartments,  which  were  furnished  in  the  most 
magnificent  style.  Before  dinner,  she  laid  aside  her  veil,  and 
discovered  a  face  uncommonly  charming.  The  prince,  not- 
withstanding, beheld  her  unmoved.  "  No  me,"  thought  bs 
n  is  beautiful,  whose  actions  are  hideous." 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  26* 

But  when  dinner  was  over,  and  wine  was  introduced ;  whe* 
music  and  dancing  had  softened  the  mind  of  the  ycung  prince, 
then  the  charms  of  the  enchantress  bewitched  him ;  and  laying 
aside  all  his  wholesome  fears,  he  returned  her  caresses,  care 
less  of  the  consequences. 

For  nine  and  thirty  days  Beder  abandoned  himself  to  these 
enervating  pleasures ;  but  in  the  evening  of  the  last  of  these 
days,  he  chanced  to  observe  the  queen  mix  a  powder  in  a  cup 
of  wine,  which  she  afterwards  presented  to  him.  His  suspi- 
cions were  at  once  awakened.  He  contrived  jo  change  the 
cup  unobserved ;  and  by  that  means  avoided  drinking  the 
potion,  though  he  knew  not  for  what  purpose  it  was  adminis- 
tered. The  powder  was  intended  to  promote  sleep ;  and  when 
Beder  and  the  queen  retired  to  rest,  the  prince,  whose  mind 
was  much  disturbed,  aided  the  deception  unwittingly,  by  pre 
tending  to  fall  asleep  immediately,  in  order  to  avoid  conversa 
tion.  Labe  arose,  not  doubting  but  her  powder  had  taken 
the  designed  effect,  proceeded  to  her  incantations ;  Beder  all 
the  time  observing  her  with  the  most  anxious  solicitude. 

She  opened  a  chest,  and  taking  out  a  box  full  of  yellow 
powder,  she  laid  a  train  of  it  across  the  chamber,  when  a  riv- 
ulet of  water  appeared.  The  sorceress  poured  some  of  the 
water  into  a  basin  full  of  flour  and  kneaded  it,  mixing  certain 
drugs,  and  all  the  while  muttering  over  it.  Having  made  a 
cake,  she  caused  a  fire  to  appear  in  one  corner  of  the  room 
where  she  baked  it.  When  it  was  done,  she  uttered  certain 
words,  and  the  rivulet  and  fire  disappeared.  The  queen  put 
by  her  cake,  and  returned  to  bed. 

Beder  no  longer  doubted  but  Labe  meditated  mischief 
against  him.  In  this  situation,  he  reflected  with  deep  regret 
that  he  had  given  himself  up  to  sensuality  with  the  abandoned 
|ueen,  and  neglected  Abdallah.  He  resolved  to  visit  him  as 
«oon  as  it  was  day,  to  acknowledge  his  fault,  and  entreat  hi/ 
advice  how  to  act  in  his  present  situation. 

He  arose  accordingly,  and  leaving  queen  Labe  asleep,  L« 
found  out  the  house  of  his  kind  host,  and  related  to  hie  all 

23* 


170  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

Aat  had  passed.  Abdallah,  embracing  him,  said,  "You  Lar« 
shaken  off  your  folly,  my  dear  Beder,  and  you  have  become 
jealous  in  good  time.  You  are  not  mistaken;  this  wicked 
woman,  notwithstanding  her  repeated  oaths,  meditates  your 
ruin.  When  you  return,  she  will  present  you  with  a  cake, 
and  press  you  much  to  eat  it.  You  will  do  well  to  slip  it  aside 
and  eat  a  piece  of  this  which  I  will  now  give  you.  When  she 
thinks  you  have  swallowed  it,  she  will  attempt  to  transform 
you  into  some  animal.  Finding  she  does  not  succeed,  she  will 
pass  it  off  as  a  joke;  but  her  hatred  of  you  will  become 
extreme.  While  she  is  in  this  confusion,  you  must  present 
her  with  her  own  cake  whole.  As  she  will  think  she  has 
failed  of  her  purpose  from  some  omission  in  making  her  cake, 
she  will  readily  eat  some  of  yours,  to  remove  all  distrust  ID 
you,  and  the  sooner,  because  she  will  think  you  broke  and  ate 
a  part  of  that  she  made.  As  soon  as  she  has  swallowed  a 
morsel  of  it,  throw  some  water  in  her  face,  and  bid  her  quit 
her  present  form,  and  take  any  one  you  please. 

Beder  made  all  possible  acknowledgment  to  Abdallah  for 
defending  him  thus  from  the  wiles  of  a  pestilent  sorceress. 
On  his  return  to  the  palace,  the  queen  met  him  with  much 
seeming  affection;  she  gently  chid  him  for  having  left  her 
so  long,  and  invited  him  to  walk  with  her  in  the  garden. 
When  they  came  to  a  cascade,  Labe,  with  the  most  endearing 
tenderness,  presented  the  prince  with  a  cake,  which  she  told 
him  was  of  her  making,  and  besought  him  to  eat  it  for  her 
sake.  Beder  received  it  with  respect,  and,  bowing  low  con- 
trived to  change  it  unobserved  for  that  which  Abdallah  had 
given  him.  As  soon  as  he  had  eaten  a  little  of  it,  the  sorceress 
taking  some  water  from  the  cascade,  threw  it  in  his  face,  say 
ing,  "  Wretch,  quit  the  form  of  a  man,  and  become  a  vile 
horse,  lame  and  blind." 

These  words  having  no  effect,  the  queen  appeared  confused, 
imd  blushed  exceedingly  ;  but  she  presently  began  to  laugh  at 
Beder,  who  gave  in  to  the  pleasantry  and  laughed  with  her 
Boon  af;er,  he  said,  "  Charming  queen,  the  only  gift  I  would 


ENTERTAINMENTS  27  i 

accept  of  from  my  uncle  this  morning  was  a  cake,  which  you 
will  find  most  delicious,  if  you  will  do  me  the  honor  to  taste 
it."  Saying  this,  he  presented  her  with  her  own  cake.  L| 
ordor  to  regain  the  confidence  of  the  king  of  Persia,  she 
broke  off  a  piece  and  ate  it.  But  she  had  no  sooner  swal- 
low ed  it,  than  she  appeared  much  troubled,  and  remained 
motionless.  Beder  catching  up  some  water  in  his  turn,  threw 
il  in  her  face,  saying,  "  Abominable  sorceress,  quit  the  form  of 
a  woman,  which  thy  crimes  so  much  dishonor,  and  become  a 
mare."  The  transformation  took  place  immediately. 

The  mare  appeared  very  sensible  of  her  situation,  for  she 
shed  tears  in  great  abundance,  and  bowed  her  head  very  sub- 
missively to  the  prince.  He  put  her  into  the  hands  of  a  groom 
to  bridle  and  saddle ;  but  of  all  the  bridles  in  the  stables,  not 
one  would  fit  her.  Beder  ordered  the  groom  to  lead  her 
with  him  to  Abdallah's  house,  who  rejoiced  exceedingly  to  see 
the  prince  safe,  and  the  sorceress  in  that  situation.  The  old 
man  soon  found  a  bridle  which  fitted  her  exactly ;  when  hav- 
ing dismissed  the  groom,  he  said  to  Beder,  "  It  will  be  best  for 
you,  my  lord,  to  quit  this  city  immediately.  Mount  the  mare, 
and  return  to  your  kingdom.  But  before  you  leave  me,  let 
me  recommend  one  thing  to  your  especial  care,  which  is,  if 
ever  you  part  with  your  mare,  be  sure  to  deliver  the  bridle." 
Beder  promised  to  remember  this  caution,  and  having  taken 
in  affectionate  farewell  of  his  friend,  he  set  out  for  Persia. 

After  several  days'  travelling,  he  arrived  at  the  suburbs  of 
a  great  city,  where  a  venerable  old  man  stopped  him,  and 
asked  him  from  what  part  *tf  the  world  he  came?  While 
they  were  talking,  an  old  woman  came  by,  and  looking  at  the 
mare,  sighed  and  wept  bitterly. 

Beder  was  affected  with  her  sorrow,  and  asked  her  tb* 
cause  of  it.  "  Alas !  sir,"  said  she,  "  it  is  because  your  mare 
10  exactly  resembles  one  my  son  had,  that  I  should  think  it  the 
same,  if  I  did  not  know  she  was  dead.  Soil  her  to  me,  J 
beseech  you ;  I  will  give  you  more  than  ?he  is  wcrth.  for  the 
take  ot  him  who  once  owned  her  likeness." 


272  ARA3MX   NIGHTS* 

The  king  of  Persia  told  her  he  would  on  no  account  sell  hii 
mare.  But  she  continued  urging  and  entreating  him.  till  he 
was  tired  with  her  importunity.  At  length,  seeing  her  very 
poorly  dressed,  he  thought  of  a  method  to  get  rid  of  her.  "  ] 
never  intended,"  said  he,  "  to  sell  so  good  a  beast,  nor  will  I 
now  for  less  than  a  thousand  pieces  of  gold.  For  that  prica 
you  shall  have  her ;  so  go  home  and  fetch  the  money."  "  I 
have  no  need  to  go  home  for  it,"  replied  the  old  woman, 
unloosing  a  purse  she  had  at  her  girdle,  a  here  is  exactly  the 
sum  you  demand." 

Beder  was  surprised  to  find  so  shabby  a  woman  thus  ready 
with  such  a  large  sum.  He  bid  her  put  up  her  money.  "  I 
have  been  only  bantering  you,"  said  he,  "  my  mare  is  not  to  be 
sold." 

The  old  man  had  been  witness  of  all  that  had  passed. 
*  Son,"  said  he  to  Beder,  "  it  is  necessary  you  should  know 
one  thing  which  I  find  you  are  ignorant  of.  It  is  not  permit- 
ted in  this  city  for  any  one  to  tell  a  lie,  on  pain  of  death.  As» 
you  have  made  a  bargain  with  this  old  woman,  you  must  not 
refuse  to  take  her  money  and  deliver  your  mare,  or  you  will 
expose  yourself  to  certain  destruction.  • 

The  king  of  Persia  found  himself  obliged  to  alight,  and  give 
up  his  mare.  In  his  confusion,  he  still  kept  hold  of  the  bridle 
long  enough  for  the  old  woman  to  slip  it  off  the  mare's  head, 
and  leave  it  in  his  hand.  The  old  woman  then  taking  up  soma 
water  that  ran  in  the  street,  threw  it  in  the  mare's  face,  saying, 
"  Daughter,  quit  that  beastly  form,  and  reassume  thine  own/ 
The  queen  was  immediately  restored,  and  Beder  was  sc 
terrified  when  he  saw  her,  that  he  was  unable  to  attempt  to 


The  old  woman  was  the  mother  of  queen  Labe,  and  had 
instructed  her  in  all  her  magic.  As  soon  as  she  had  embraced 
her  daughter,  she  caused  a  genie  to  arise,  who,  taking  Beder 
on  one  shoulder,  and  the  old  woman  with  queen  Labe  on  the 
Mher,  he  transported  them  in  a  few  minutes  to  the  palace  of 
the  queen  in  the  city  of  enchantments.  When  they  arrived 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  273 

tal>e,  amidst  many  execrations,  transformed  tfie  prince  into  s 
vile  owl,  and  delivered  him  to  one  of  her  attendants,  with 
orders  to  shut  him  up  in  a  cage,  and  keep  him  without  food  till 
he  perished. 

The  attendant  disregarding  the  queen's  command,  locked  up 
the  cage  in  a  room  where  no  other  person  could  come,  leaving 
him  plenty  of  food.  She  then  went  to  Abdallah,  and  ac- 
quainted him  with  the  fate  of  the  king  of  Persia,  and  his  OWE 
Janger ;  queen  Labe  having  vowed  to  destroy  him  by  next 
morning. 

Abdallah  knew  the  power  and  the  malice  of  the  sorceress. 
He  summoned,  therefore,  a  genie,  who  immediately  conveyed 
the  attendant  to  the  court  of  Persia.  By  the  direction  of 
Abdallah  she  told  queen  Gulnare  in  what  situation  she  had 
left  Beder.  The  affectionate  mother  burst  into  tears  of  joy  a> 
hearing  of  her  son.  She  ordered  the  trumpets  to  sound,  the 
drums  to  beat,  and  caused  proclamation  to  be  made  all  over  the 
city,  that  king  Beder  was  about  to  return  to  his  capital.  She 
then,  by  a  certain  fumigation,  summoned  Saleh,  and  acquainted 
him  with  the  situation  of  his  nephew. 

Saleh  assembled  his  troops,  and  called  to  his  assistance  the 
genies,  his  allies,  who  appeared  with  their  numerous  armies. 
Gulnare  joined  them,  and  they  all  lifted  themselves  up  in  the 
air,  and  soon  poured  down  on  the  palace  and  the  city  of 
enchantments,  where  the  magic  queen,  her  mother,  and  all  the 
other  adorers  of  fire  were  put  to  death.  Beder  was  again 
restored  to  his  proper  form ;  and  Abdallah  being  placed  on  the 
throne  of  Labe,  received  for  his  queen  the  attendant  who  ha<J 
preserved  him  and  Beder. 

The  marriage  revived  the  attachment  of  the  king  of  Persia 
to  the  lovely  Giauhara,  and  Saleh,  desirous  cf  gratifying  *he 
wishes  of  his  nephew,  ordered  the  king  of  Samandal  to  be 
conducted  to  the  city  of  enchantments.  The  pride  of  that 
prince  had  been  now  sufficiently  humbled ;  he  rejoiced  in  the 
opportunity  of  being  restored  to  his  throne,  by  an  allianw 
with  the  family  of  his  conquerors. 


274  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

Giauhara  obeyed  her  father  without  reluctance ;  and  aftei 
apologizing  to  the  king  of  Persia  for  the  severe  treatment 
which  filial  duty  had  compelled  her  to  offer  him,  she  gave  him 
her  hand.  The  nuptials  were  solemnized  with  the  utmost  mag- 
nificence ;  all  the  lovers  of  the  magic  queen,  now  restored  tc 
iheir  pristine  forms,  joyfully  assisting  at  them. 

The   History  of  Ganem,  son  to  Abou  Ayoub,  sumamed  Low? 
Slave. 

ABOU  Ayoub  was  a  merchant  of  Damascus,  who  had,  by 
eare  and  industry,  acquired  great  wealth.  He  had  a  son,  a 
very  accomplished  young  man,  whose  name  was  Ganem,  after- 
wards called  Love's  Slave ;  and  a  daughter,  who,  on  account 
of  her  admirable  beauty,  was  named  Alcolomb,  or  Ravisher  of 
Hearts. 

Abou  Ayoub  died ;  and  amidst  immense  riches,  he  left  an 
hundred  bales  of  brocades  and  other  rich  silks,  which  were 
ready  packed  in  the  warehouses,  and  marked  for  Bagdad. 
Some  time  after  his  death,  Ganem  resolved  to  carry  these  goods 
to  the  market  they  were  destined  for,  and  dispose  of  them 
among  his  father's  correspondents.  He  was  received  by  them 
with  great  respect,  and  soon  sold  his  goods  to  his  satisfaction. 

Ganem  employed  the  time  he  had  to  stay  at  Bagdad  till  the 
return  of  the  caravan  in  improving  his  mind,  by  conversing 
with  the  principal  merchants,  and  seeing  everything  which  was 
worthy  of  observation.  One  day,  on  going  to  the  bezestein, 
he  found  all  the  shops  were  shut ;  and  on  inquiring  the  cause, 
he  was  told  that  one  of  the  merchants,  whom  he  knew,  was 
dead,  and  that  all  his  brother  traders  were  gone  to  his  funeral 

Ganem  went  to  the  mosque,  and  arrived  there  before  ihe 
prayers  were  ended  ;  after  which,  the  body  was  taken  up,  and 
followed  by  the  kindred  and  the  merchants,  whom  Ganem 
joined,  to  the  place  of  the  burial,  which  was  at  a  great  distance 
from  the  city.  It  was  a  stone  structure,  like  a  dome,  buill 
purposely  far  the  family  of  the  deceased.  Tents  were  pitched 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  27» 

around  it  to  receive  the  company.  The  monument  vas  opened 
and  the  corpse  laid  in  it ;  the  imam  and  the  other  priests  sai 
down  in  a  ring,  and  said  the  rest  of  the  prayers ;  they  also  read 
the  chapters  of  the  Alcoran  appointed  for  the  burial  of  the 
dead ;  the  kindred  and  merchants  sitting  round  in  the  same 
manner  behind  them. 

It  was  near  night  before  all  was  ended.  Ganem,  who  did 
did  not  expect  so  long  a  ceremony,  began  t/o  be  impatient ;  and 
more  so  when  he  saw  meats  served  in  memory  of  the  deceased, 
according  to  the  custom  of  Bagdad.  He  was  also  told,  that  the 
tents  were  set  up  to  protect  the  company  from  the  evening 
dews,  as  they  were  not  to  return  to  the  city  before  morning. 
Ganem,  who  had  considerable  property  in  his  house,  was 
alarmed  at  this  account ;  and  having  eaten  a  little  of  the  meat, 
he  contrived  to  slip  away  from  the  company  unobserved. 

He  made  all  possible  haste  towards  the  city,  but  unluckily 
mistook  his  way ;  nor  could  he  even  find  the  track  to  the  tents 
again.  In  this  situation,  he  resolved  to  take  shelter  for  the 
night  in  one  of  the  tombs,  the  doors  of  which  they  did  not  take 
much  care  to  shut  fast. 

He  came  at  length  to  a  large  tomb,  before  which  grew  a 
palm  tree.  Here  the  young  merchant  entered,  and  laying 
down,  endeavored  to  sleep ;  but  the  anxiety  he  was  under  at 
being  absent  from  home  prevented  him.  He  arose,  therefore, 
and  walked  backward  and  forward  before  the  door.  After  some 
time,  he  was  startled  to  see  a  light  coming  towards  him.  He 
shut  the  tomb,  and  climbed  up  the  palm  tree  as  his  safest  retreat 

He  had  scarce  seated  himself,  when  he  perceived  three 
slaves  enter  the  burial-place  ;  one  of  them  bearing  a  light,  the 
other  two  a  large  chest ;  which,  having  dug  a  hole,  they  de- 
posited in  the  earth,  and  filling  up  the  hole  as  smooth  as  possi- 
ble, they  departed. 

Ganem  concluded  that  the  chest  contained  something  of 
value ;  when  the  slaves  were  gone,  and  daylight  began  tc 
appear,  he  descended  from  the  palm  tree,  and  with  much  labor 
removed  the  earth  from  the  chest,  and,  on  opening  it,  wa/ 


176  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

amazed  to  find  a  young  lady  of  incomparable  beauty,  magnift 
cently  dressed ;  and  though  her  eyes  were  shut,  evidently 
alive.  Ganem  lifted  her  out  of  the  chest,  and  the  fresh  air 
presently  recovered  her.  When  her  faculties  returned,  she 
was  equally  frightened  and  astonished  to  find  herself  in  a  burial- 
place.  Ganem  approached  her  with  the  utmost  respect ;  ha 
expressed  his  joy  at  having  been  the  means  of  saving  her 
from  a  premature  grave,  and  offered  to  obey  her  command? 
and  render  her,  in  any  manner  she  chose,  the  services  she 
stood  in  need  of.  At  the  sight  of  Ganem,  the  lady  covered 
her  face  with  her  veil.  After  hearing  his  account,  and  seeing 
the  chest,  she  was  at  no  loss  to  comprehend  her  situation  or 
the  value  of  the  assistance  the  merchant  had  rendered  her. 

But  the  present  was  no  place  for  explanation ;  nor  could  she 
hesitate  to  accept  the  protection  even  of  a  stranger,  when  the 
perils  that  surrounded  her  were  so  numerous  and  so  dreadful. 
*  I  return  thanks  to  heaven,  sir,"  said  she,  "  for  having  made  you 
the  means  of  my  deliverance ;  I  will  rely  on  your  integrity, 
and  thankfully  accept  your  offer  of  further  help.  It  is  highly 
accessary,  both  for  your  safety  and  mine,  that  I  should  return 
to  Bagdad  unnoticed ;  but  the  dress  I  wear  will  attract  the 
attention  of  the  people.  We  must  contrive  to  manage  this 
•natter  first,  and  when  we  arrive  at  your  house  I  will  fully 
icquaint  you  wkh  my  situation." 

After  a  short  deliberation,  Ganem  drew  the  chest  out  of  the 
>it,  which  he  filled  up.  He  then  placed  it  in  a  part  of  the 
enclosure  where  it  was  least  likely  to  be  observed ;  and  having 
persuaded  the  lady  to  lay  down  in  it  again,  he  covered  it  over 
with  loose  boughs,  and  went  into  the  city ;  he  hired  the  first 
muleteer  he  saw,  and  returning  to  the  burial-place,  assisted 
6im  to  place  the  chest  on  the  back  of  the  mule,  giving  him 
dome  plausible  reason  for  having  deposited  it  there.  The 
muleteer  was  not  very  curious ;  he  carried  the  chest  to  the 
merchant's  house,  and  having  received  his  hire,  went,  welJ 
natisfied,  about  his  business. 

Ganem  hastened  to  release  the  lady ;  he  put  her  in  posses 


ENTERTAINMENTS  27'' 

lion  of  his  best  apartments,  and  then  left  her  to  repose.  Re- 
turning some  hours  after,  he  presented  her  with  two  female 
slaves,  which  he  had  bought  to  attend  her,  and  led  her  to  a 
table  covered  with  the  choicest  dainties.  The  lady  by  thia 
time  was  much  recovered,  and  by  the  lively  sallies  of  her  wit, 
completed  the  conquest  of  Ganem's  heart.  The  young  mer- 
chant had  not  before  felt  the  power  of  love,  but  now  suffered 
it  to  take  the  most  entire  possession  of  his  soul. 

When  they  had  dined,  and  the  slaves  were  withdrawn, 
Ganem,  in  reaching  over  some  fruit  to  his  guest,  observed 
some  golden  letters  on  the  edge  of  her  veil,  which  he  request- 
ed she  would  explain.  "  Read  them,"  said  she,  taking  off 
her  veil,  "  they  will  serve  to  introduce  my  story  to  you."  The 
young  merchant  was  so  delighted  with  the  admirable  beauty 
of  his  guest,  that  for  some  moments  he  forgot  to  look  at  the 
veil  he  held  in  his  hand ;  but  when  he  read  the  words,  he  was 
covered  with  confusion,  for  they  implied  that  the  wearer  was 
betrothed  to  the  illustrious  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid.  "  Alas  \ 
madam,"  said  Ganem,  "  I  have  rescued  you  from  the  grave^ 
and  these  words  on  }our  veil  condemn  me  to  it." 

The  lady,  without  noticing  this  sally  of  her  deliverer,  pro 
ceeded  to  acquaint  him  with  her  story.  "My  name,"  said 
she,  "  is  Fetnah,  which  signifies  a  storm,  and  was  given  me 
because  it  was  predicted  at  my  birth,  that  the  sight  of  me 
would  occasion  many  calamities.  I  was,  very  early  in  my  life 
introduced  into  the  palace  of  the  caliph ;  who  was  so  taken 
with  me,  that  he  presented  me  this  veil ;  and  had  before  now 
added  me  to  the  number  of  his  wives,  had  not  his  presence 
been  required  to  quell  an  insurrection  in  a  distant  part  of  hie 
dominions.  The  partiality  of  the  caliph  raised  me  many  ene- 
mies ;  the  chief  of  whom  is  Zobeide,  his  first  wife,  and  for  a 
long  time  his  favorite.  This  violent  woman  has  taken  advan- 
tage of  his  absence ;  she  has  caused  my  slaves  to  administer  a 
sleepy  potion  to  me,  and  during  its  effect,  disposed  of  me  in 
the  manner  you  was  witness  to.  When  the  caliph  returns,  he 
will,  I  am  sure,  amply  reward  the  service  you  have  done  me 

24 


278  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

but  till  then  A,  is  necessary  that  I  should  remain  in  the  utmost 
privacy ;  as  should  Zobeide  know  that  I  have  been  delivered 
she  would  not  only  destroy  me,  but  you  would  also  fall  a  sacri- 
fice to  her  cruelty  and  revenge  for  having  preserved  me." 

When  Fetnah  had  finished  her  narrative,  the  young  mer- 
chant replied,  with  a  sigh,  "  Ah  !  madam,  your  story  has  plunged 
me  in  the  deepest  despair.  I  had  presumed  to  encourage 
hopes  which  I  must  forever  renounce.  I  will  preserve  you 
here  in  secret  for  your  illustrious  lover.  I  cannot  cease  to 
adore  you,  but  will  never  again  presume  to  hint  my  passion  to 
you.  I  know  too  well  my  duty  to  the  commander  of  the 
faithful,  and  that  "  what  belongs  to  the  master,  is  forbidden  to 
the  slave." 

From  this  time  Ganem  waited  on  the  lady  with  the  most 
respectful  attention.  He  never  suffered  a  word  to  escape  him 
on  the  subject  of  his  passion  for  her ;  but  his  eyes  and  actions 
continually  spoke  for  him.  Fetnah,  who  had  no  affection  for 
the  caliph,  could  not  resist  the  attractions  of  a  handsome  young 
man,  who  had  been  so  materially  her  benefactor,  and  whose 
love  for  her  was  unquestionable.  She  devoted  her  whole  heart 
to  him ;  yet  they  were  both  restrained,  by  a  sense  of  duty  to 
the  commander  of  the  faithful,  from  coming  to  an  explana- 
tion, Ganem  often  repeating,  "  what  belongs  to  the  master,  is 
forbidden  to  the  slave." 

But  though  no  expressions  of  affection  escaped  the  lips  of 
either  of  the  lovers,  yet  they  passed  every  hour  together  which 
was  not  devoted  to  indispensable  avocations.  When  they  were 
for  a  little  time  thus  divided,  Fetnah  counted  the  hours  of 
Ganem's  absence  ;  and  he  flew  with  rapture  to  her  presence  as 
4oou  as  he  could  despatch  his  business.  Several  months  glided 
ftway  in  this  manner.  At  length  the  young  merchant  growing 
impatient,  began  to  drop  hints,  inviting  his  lovely  guest  to  retire 
with  him  to  Damascus,  and  unite  her  fate  with  his.  Fetnah 
had  almost  determined  to  accept  his  offer,  when  a  little  female 
vanity,  and  a  well-founded,  but  indiscreet  indignation,  put  an 
Mid  to  all  Ganem's  hopes,  and  plunged  them  both  into  verj 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  27'J 

Fetnah  could  not  bear  that  Zobeide  should  triumph  in  .he 
success  of  her  barbarous  arts.  Without  considering  the  con- 
sequences to  herself  or  her  protector,  she  determined  to  laj 
before  the  caliph  the  wickedness  of  that  princess.  She  re- 
quested Ganem  to  inquire  if  the  commander  of  the  faithful 
was  returned,  and  whether  any  notice  was  taken  of  her  sup- 
posed death. 

Ganem  conducted  these  inquiries  with  great  dexterity.  Ha 
^earnt  that  immediately  after  her  having  been  disposed  of  in 
she  burial-place,  a  report  of  her  death  had  been  industriously 
ipread  all  over  the  city;  that  Zobeide  had  celebrated  her 
obsequies  with  great  pomp,  and  had  erected  a  mausoleum  to 
receive  the  body,  where  lighted  candles  were  perpetually  burn- 
ing, and  every  ceremony  performed  which  custom  had  appointed 
for  the  illustrious  dead. 

He  heard  further,  that  the  caliph  had  returned  to  Bagdad 
more  than  a  month ;  that  on  his  arrival  he  had  expressed  the 
utmost  sorrow  for  the  loss  of  his  beloved  Fetnah;  that  he 
caused  the  ceremonies  to  be  repeated  with  still  greater  magni- 
ficence, and  that  they  were  still  continued.  Prayers  and  the 
Alcoran  were  recited,  and  the  caliph,  attended  by  his  officers 
in  the  deepest  mourning,  every  day  moistened  the  earth  that 
covered  the  phantom  of  his  love,  with  his  tears. 

Fetnah,  on  receiving  this  report,  drew  up  a  relation  of  all 
that  had  befallen  her.  This,  by  the  help  of  Ganem,  she  con- 
trived to  lay  before  the  caliph.  Haroun  read  the  account  of 
his  favorite's  sufferings  with  surprise  and  tenderness,  and  with 
indignation  against  Zobeide.  But  towards  the  close  of  her 
narrative,  Fetnah  had  enlarged  a  L'ttle  too  much  on  the  care 
which  Ganem  took  of  her.  The  manner  also  in  which  she 
gpoke  of  her  deliverer,  betrayed  to  the  jealous  prince  the  state 
i»f  her  heart ! 

"  Is  it  so  ?  "  exclaimed  the  enraged  caliph ;  u  the  perfidious 
wretch  has  been  four  months  with  a  young  merchant,  and 
iares  to  boast  of  the  respect  he  pays  her !  Thirty  days  ar* 
past  since  my  return  to  Bagdad,  and  she  now  bethinks  herself 


280  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

of  telling  me  this  news.  Ungrateful  creature!  while  t  havi 
passed  the  hours  in  bewailing  her,  she  has  spent  them  in 
betraying  me !  —  Go  to,  let  us  take  revenge  on  the  false  woman, 
and  on  that  bold  youth  who  affronts  me/' 

The  caliph  immediately  despatched  Giafar  with  orders  to 
level  Ganem's  habitation  to  the  ground,  and  to  bring  him  and 
Fetnah  prisoners  to  the  palace.  The  grand  vizier  had  no  diffi- 
culty in  finding  out  the  house  of  the  young  merchant,  which 
chanced  to  stand  detached  from  any  other.  He  ordered  his 
troops  to  surround  it,  that  neither  he  nor  Fetnah  might  escape. 

The  instant  Fetnah  saw  the  soldiers  posting  in  a  circle 
round  her  asylum,  she  concluded  that  her  memorial  to  the 
caliph  had  been  attended  with  effects  very  different  from  what 
she  had  expected.  Though  not  without  alarm  on  her  own 
account,  her  principal  concern  was  for  Ganem.  Her  influence 
with  the  caliph  she  trusted  could  meet  his  anger ;  but  to  his 
rage  and  jealousy,  her  host,  her  deliverer,  would  certainly  fall 
a  sacrifice.  She  hastily  explained  to  Ganem  the  nature  of 
their  situation,  and  without  listening  to  his  desire  of  staying 
with  her  and  sharing  her  fate,  she  obliged  him  to  disguise 
himself  like  a  slave  belonging  to  an  eating-house,  and  putting 
on  his  head  the  dishes  they  had  just  eaten  their  dinner  from, 
she  opened  the  door  and  dismissed  him. 

Giafar  was  advancing  to  the  house,  when  he  met  Ganem ; 
but  being  deceived  by  his  appearance,  he  suffered  him  to  pas? 
without  examination ;  and  the  soldiers  seeing  him  go  by  the 
grand  vizier  unnoticed,  gave  him  way  also  ,  he  got  speedily  to 
one  of  the  city  gates,  and  escaped. 

When  the  grand  vizier  entered  the  house,  he  found  Fetnah 
sitting  in  a  room  where  were  a  number  of  chests  full  of  the 
money  wbich  Ganem  had  made  of  his  goods.  The  minister, 
in  the  most  gentle  manner,  communicated  his  master's  orders 
to  the  lady,  who  declared  herself  ready  to  attend  him  ;  but 
added,  that  the  merchant  to  whom  she  owed  her  life,  had  been 
gone  above  a  month  to  Damascus.  She  then  besought  Giafar 
to  preserve  the  chests  which  contained  her  deliverer's  proj^rty, 
•vhich  he  readily  undertook  to  do. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  29± 

The  grand  vizier,  having  given  orders  for  destroying  the 
house,  conducted  Fetnah  to  the  palace,  and  entering  the  royafc 
presence?  gave  the  caliph  an  account  of  his  proceedings.  Haroun 
was  so  enraged  when  he  found  the  young  merchant  had  escaped, 
that  he  refused  to  see  Fetnah ;  he  ordered  her  to  be  shi  t  up  in 
the  dark  tower,  a  prison  within  the  walls  of  the  palace,  where 
the  attendants  of  the  caliph  were  punished  when  they  disobliged 
him,  and  where  he  vowed  the  unfortunate  Fetnah  should  end 
her  days. 

Not  satisfied  with  this  victim  to  his  fury,  the  enraged  caliph 
wrote  to  his  cousin  Zinebi,  who  held  the  kingdom  of  Syria  as 
his  tributary,  to  find  out  Ganem,  if  possible,  and  send  him 
prisoner  to  Bagdad.  He  ordered  his  house  there  to  be  plun- 
dered and  then  razed  ;  and  all  his  nearest  relations  to  be  led 
naked  through  the  city  for  three  days,  after  which  they  were 
to  be  banished  Damascus ;  the  citizens,  also,  were  forbidden  tc 
give  them  shelter  or  relief  on  pain  of  death. 

Zinebi,  though  he  received  these  orders  with  great  regret, 
knew  his  duty  to  the  commander  of  the  faithful  too  well  tc 
delay  obedience.  He  went  with  a  few  attendants  to  Ganem's 
house,  where  he  found  his  mother  and  sister,  retired  into  a 
dome  they  had  erected  at  a  tomb  for  their  beloved  relation ;  of 
whom,  as  they  had  heard  nothing  for  a  long  time,  they  supposed 
to  be  dead.  Zinebi,  having  caused  the  house  to  be  diligently 
searched  for  Ganem,  told  the  ladies  in  the  most  gentle  manner, 
that  he  had  incurred  the  high  displeasure  of  the  caliph,  and 
hinted  to  them  that  the  resentment  of  the  commander  of  the 
faithful  had  extended  itself  to  them.  This  affectionate  mother 
and  her  daughter  were  so  rejoiced  to  hear  that  Ganem  was 
alive,  that  they  at  first  disregarded  the  severities  which  were 
denounced  against  them.  Zinebi,  moved  with  their  piety,  took 
off  his  robe  and  covered  them  with  it,  to  protect  them  from 
insult;  he  then  led  them  out,  and  gave  the  signal  for  the 
mob  to  plunder.  Chests  full  of  wealth,  fine  Persian  and 
Indian  carpets,  and  other  rich  goods  were  carried  off  by  the 
nibble ;  after  which  the  house  was  levelled  with  the  ground< 

24* 


282  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

in  the  presence  of  the  afflicted  ladies;  who,  having  under 
gone  the  first  part  of  their  punishment,  were  conveyed  to  th* 
palace,  where  the  queen  of  Zinebi  treated  them  with  as  muck 
tenderness  as  she  durst. 

The  next  day,  proclamation  was  made  through  the  city  of 
Damascus  of  Ganem's  offence,  and  of  the  further  punishment 
which  the  caliph  had  ordered  to  bo  inflicted  on  his  relations 
The  citizens  heard  these  cruel  and  unjust  commands  with  the 
highest  indignation.  They  shut  up  their  houses  and  shops,  and 
avoided  the  streets  at  the  time  the  unhappy  ladies  were  led 
through  them.  Even  the  officers  executed  their  duty  without 
rigor,  and  suffered  them  to  wear  a  loose  robe  of  horse  hair 
which  some  of  their  friends  had  ventured  to  provide  for  them. 

The  sentence  being  fulfilled,  they  were  banished  the  city, 
and  the  inhabitants  strictly  forbidden  to  give  them  any  assist- 
ance. Notwithstanding  this  injunction,  they  were  supplied 
with  apparel  and  money  by  their  compassionate  neighbors ;  and 
left  Damascus,  rejoicing  amidst  their  sufferings,  that  their 
beloved  was  yet  alive. 

While  these  matters  passed  at  Damascus,  Fetnah  continued 
h,  close  prisoner  in  the  dark  tower,  where  she  ceased  not  to 
bewail  the  fate  of  her  unfortunate  deliverer.  One  night,  as  the 
caliph  was  returning  from  an  evening  perambulation,  he  passed 
by  the  dark  tower,  and  overheard  Fetnah  lamenting  her  situa- 
tion. She  bewailed  the  ruin  of  Ganem,  and  deprecated  the 
arralh  of  heaven  upon  the  caliph  ;  whom  she  charged  in  the 
most  pointed  terms  with  cruelty,  injustice,  and  ingratitude. 

This  accident  caused  the  caliph  to  recollect  himself.  Re- 
sent for  Fetnah,  and  caused  her  to  relate  to  him  all  that  had 
befallen  her.  She  dwelt  much  on  the  obligations  she  was  un- 
der to  Ganem.  She  praised  the  respect  with  which  he  had 
always  behaved.  "  I  will  not  conceal  from  your  majesty," 
continued  she,  "  that  at  first  he  seemed  desirous  to  devote  him- 
self to  me ;  but  as  soon  as  he  heard  that  I  had  the  honor  of 
being  acceptable  to  you,  he  exclaimed,  '  that  which  belongs  to 
4ie  master,  is  forbidden  to  the  slave.'  From  that  moment  hi* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  28# 

behavior  was  agreeable  to  such  an  idea ;  assiduous,  but  distan' 
and  respectful.  Notwithstanding  which,  you,  commander  of 
the  faithful,  know  with  what  rigor  you  have  treated  him ;  and 
you  will  answer  for  it  before  the  tribunal  of  God." 

Though  Haroun  was  violent  in  his  passions,  and  sometimes 
gave  himself  up  to  their  influence  too  hastily,  yet  he  loved 
justice,  and  when  calm,  was  open  to  conviction.  He  regretted 
exceedingly  the  severity  he  had  exercised  towards  Ganem,  and 
was  not  displeased  with  the  frankness  of  Fetnah.  "  At  least," 
said  the  humbled  prince,  "  I  will  meet  that  awful  appeal,  with 
having  made  every  reparation  in  my  power  ;  I  will  cause  his 
pardon  to  be  published  throughout  my  dominions,  and  will 
amply  repay  his  losses.  This  is  due  to  his  innocence,  and  to 
compensate  for  the  miseries  I  have  caused  him  and  his  family 
to  suffer,  I  will  give  you  to  him  for  a  wife,  and  make  him  wealthy 
beyond  his  hopes." 

Fetnah  returned  the  caliph  thanks  for  his  justice;  after 
which,  she  was  permitted  to  return  to  the  apartments  which 
ehe  had  formerly  possessed  in  the  palace ;  and  she  had  the 
satisfaction  to  find  there  all  the  chests  belonging  to  Ganem ; 
which  the  vizier  had  taken  care  to  convey  thither. 

Proclamation  was  made  all  over  .the  dominions  ol  the  caliph, 
declaring  the  son  of  Abou  Ayoub  pardoned,  and  inviting  him 
to  return  to  Bagdad,  and  receive  the  bounty  of  his  sovereign ; 
but  a  long  time  elapsed  without  any  news  of  the  young  mer- 
chant. Fetnah  became  exceedingly  unhappy  on  his  account. 
Besides  using  every  means  of  inquiry  in  her  power,  she  went 
from  mosque  to  mosque,  bestowing  alms  among  the  devotees, 
and  soliciting  their  prayers. 

One  day,  as  she  was  talking  with  a  Syndic,  to  whom  she  had 
given  a  large  sum  to  be  distributed  among  the  afflicted,  he 
shanced  to  mention  two  women  whom  her  bounty  had  enabled 
\rirn  to  relieve  when  in  a  state  of  great  distress.  He  spoke  so 
<nuch  in  their  praise,  that  Fotnah  had  a  desire  to  see  them. 
They  were  introduced  to  her ;  and  she  was  so  taken  with  their 
ppearance,  that  she  inquired  with  great  terxlerness  into  ths 


284  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

cause  of  that  misery  from  which  they  had  been  rescued  by  the 
^ood  syndic, 

"  Alas !  madam,"  replied  the  elder  stranger,  "  a  favorite  ol 
the  caliph,  whose  name  was  Fetnah,  is  the  cause  of  all  out 
misfortunes."  These  words  were  a  thunderbolt  to  the  lady, 
who  was  scarce  able  to  suppress  her  emotion,  while  the  stran- 
ger proceeded  in  her  story,  which  announced  her  the  mother  of 
Ganem ;  and  her  fellow  sufferer  to  be  his  sister,  the  lovdy 
Alcolomb. 

By  the  time  she  had  finished  her  story,  Fetnah  was  in  some 
degree  recovered.  She  embraced  the  parent  of  her  lover. 
"  I  am  that  Fetnah,"  said  she,  "  who  caused  all  your  distresses, 
but  I  have  it  in  my  power  to  make  you  full  amends."  She 
then  related  to  them  all  that  had  befallen  her  and  Ganem ; 
and  concluded  with  saying,  that  the  caliph  was  convinced  of 
her  son's  innocence,  and  impatient  to  repair  his  wrongs. 
Having  finished  her  narrative,  she  exchanged  embraces  with 
them,  and  they  mutually  vowed  a  lasting  friendship. 

When  Fetnah  was  about  to  withdraw,  the  syndic  recom- 
mended to  her  benevolence  a  young  man  who  had  been  just 
brought  into  his  house,  and  seemed  oppressed  with  sorrow  as 
well  as  illness.  Fetnah,  whose  heart  was  more  than  ever  dis- 
posed to  pity,  by  the  affecting  interview  she  had  just  had, 
wished  to  see  him.  On  beholding  him,  laying  on  his  bed,  his 
eyes  closed,  his  face  pale  and  emaciated,  she  started,  and  thought 
that  she  discovered  amidst  all  this  wretchedness,  the  counte- 
nance of  her  beloved  Ganem.  She  called  him  so,  but  the 
•sufferer  regarded  her  not.  Grieved  and  impatient,  she 
exclaimed,  "  How  am  I  deceived !  this  cannot  be  Ganem ;  the 
son  of  Abou  Ayoub,  however  sick,  would  know  the  voice  of 
Fetnah."  At  that  name  Ganem  (for  it  was  him)  opened  his 
3yes,  and  seeing  his  adored  mistress,  attempted  to  speak ;  but 
his  joy  was  too  great.  He  sunk  into  a  swoon  ;  and  the  condi- 
tion to  which  Fetnah  was  reduced,  convinced  the  syndic  it  was 
accessary  to  remove  her  from  the  apartment  of  his  patient. 

It  was  not  till  several  days  after,  when  Ganem  was  much 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  284 

recovered,  that  the  prudent  syndic  would  suffer  another  inter 
view  between  the  lovers.  At  length  he  permitted  it,  and 
having  properly  prepared  each  party,  he  introduced  to  him 
also  his  mother  and  his  sister.  After  the  transports  of  their 
mutual  joy  had  in  some  measure  subsided,  G-anem  told  them 
that  having  escaped  to  an  inconsiderable  village,  not  far  from 
Bagdad,  he  had  continued  safe  among  the  friendly  peasants ; 
but  a  sickness  seizing  him,  caused  by  his  grief  and  perturba- 
tion, which  none  of  them  could  cure,  they  had  sent  him  to 
Bagdad,  by  the  camel-driver,  in  whose  hands  the  syndic  found 
him. 

Ganem's  mother  then  related  all  that  had  befallen  her  and 
Alcolomb.  Even  the  presence  of  his  beloved  Fetnah  could 
not  prevent  the  young  merchant  from  shedding  tears  at  their 
sufferings.  He  expressed  also  his  apprehensions  lest  they 
should  fall  into  the  hands  of  the  furious  caliph.  Fetnah  pres- 
ently removed  those  fears  ;  but  when  she  added  that  the  com- 
mander of  the  faithful  had  determined  to  resign  her  to  her 
lover,  in  compensation  for  his  sufferings,  the  joy  of  Ganem 
was  inexpressible. 

The  caliph  was  soon  informed  by  Fetnah  that  the  victims  of 
his  former  ungovernable  rage  were  in  his  capital :  the  gene- 
rous prince  rejoiced  that  he  had  at  last  an  opportunity  of 
making  them  a  reparation.  He  desired  Fetnah  to  lead  the 
ladies  to  the  palace  privately ;  but  ordered  his  officers  of  state 
to  wait  on  Ganem,  and  conduct  him  to  the  palace,  with  all  the 
marks  of  respect  conferred  on  persons  of  the  most  honorable 
character. 

This  ceremony  over,  Ganem  was  presented,  together  with 
his  mother  and  sister,  to  the  caliph.  That  prince  had  the  good- 
ness to  apologize  to  them  for  what  had  passed.  He  gave 
Fetnah  with  his  own  hand  to  her  deserving  lover.  He  dis« 
missed  Zobeide  from  his  throne,  and  banished  her  his  presence, 
to  punish  her  cruelty  and  treachery ;  in  her  room,  he  received 
to  his  arms  the  lovely  Alcolomb,  whose  beauty  was  adorned 
with  good  qualities  still  more  estimable. 


188  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 


The  History  of  Prince  Zeyn  Alasnam,  and  the  King  of  thi 
Genii. 

A  RING  of  Balsora,  who  possessed  great  wealth,  and  was 
beloved  by  his  subjects,  had  no  children,  which  was  a  great 
affliction  to  him.  He  therefore  made  presents  to  all  the  holy 
persons  in  his  dominions,  to  engage  them  to  beg  of  heaven  to 
grant  him  a  son.  Their  prayers  proved  effectual.  The  queen 
was  happily  delivered  of  a  prince,  who  was  named  Zeyn  Alas- 
Dam,  which  signifies,  ornament  of  statues. 

The  king  called  all  the  astrologers  of  the  kingdom  to  calcu- 
late the  infant's  nativity.  They  found  he  would  live  long,  and 
be  very  brave;  but  that  all  his  courage  would  be  little 
enough  to  support  him  through  certain  difficulties  that  threat- 
ened him.  The  king  was  not  dismayed  at  this  prediction. 
"  My  son,"  said  he,  "  is  not  to  be  pitied,  since  he  will  be  brave. 
It  is  fit  that  princes  should  have  a  taste  of  misfortunes ;  adver- 
sity tries  virtue,  and  thence  they  become  the  fitter  to  reign." 

As  Zeyn  grew  up,  he  discovered  a  very  good  disposition 
and  by  the  care  of  his  father,  acquired  every  accomplishment 
He  had  nearly  attained  the  age  of  manhood,  when  the  good 
old  king  fell  sick  and  died. 

Zeyn  was  much  afflicted  at  the  death  of  his  father,  whom  he 
sincerely  loved ;  but  time  moderating  his  grief,  he  began  to 
enjoy  the  pleasures  of  a  throne.  He  entered  into  all  the  fol- 
lies and  vices  which  so  often  mislead  young  men.  He  was 
-surrounded  with  parasites.  He  lavished  his  treasures  on 
unworthy  favorites,  on  whom  he  bestowed  also  the  first 
appointments  in  his  kingdom;  and  they  at  once  oppressed 
and  insulted  his  people. 

From  this  delusion  he  was  awakened  by  two  circumstances 
alike  distressing  and  disgraceful.  He  found  his  treasures  di* 
fipated,  and  his  subjects  ripe  for  a  revolt.  By  dismissing  his 
worthless  companions,  and  wholly  reforming  his  conduct,  he 
appeased  his  people ;  but  the  waste  of  his  wealth  could  not  b€ 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  2& 

recalled ;  and  the  recollection  of  his  prodigality,  rendered  him 
very  unhappy. 

While  these  thoughts  had  possession  of  his  mind,  he  dreamt 
one  night,  that  a  venerable  old  man  came  towards  him,  and 
p*>ida  "  You  know,  Zeyn,  that  joy  and  sorrow  generally  succeed 
each  other.  If  you  would  put  an  end  to  your  present  afflictioi 
get  up ;  set  out  for  Egypt,  and  go  to  Grand  Cairo ;  a  greater 
fortune  attends  you  there,  than  you  have  lately  dissipated." 

The  prince,  when  he  awoke  in  the  morning,  reflected  on  bis 
ireams  very  seriously.  He  resolved  at  length  to  set  out  for 
Cairo.  This  determination  made  it  necessary  to  commit  the 
government  of  the  kingdom  to  his  mother,  wh  tried  in  vain, 
by  serious  argument  and  by  ridicule,  to  stop  his  journey  on  so 
chimerical  a  business ;  but  the  appearance  of  the  old  man,  had 
made  so  great  an  impression  on  Zeyn,  that  he  was  fully  per- 
suaded his  dream  was  supernatural.  Having  therefore  disposed 
of  his  affairs,  he  set  out  one  night,  very  privately,  and  took 
the  road  to  Cairo,  without  suffering  any  person  to  attend  him. 

After  much  fatigue,  he  arrived  at  that  famous  city.  Being 
spent  with  weariness,  he  lay  down  at  the  gate  of  a  mosque, 
and  fell  asleep ;  when  he  saw  the  same  old  man,  who  said  to 
him,  "  I  am  well  pleased,  my  son,  that  you  have  given  credi 
to  my  words.  I  have  put  you  on  this  long  journey  to  try  if 
you  had  resolution.  I  find  you  deserve  I  should  make  you 
the  richest  man  in  the  world.  Return  to  Balsora,  and  you 
shall  find  immense  wealth  in  your  palace." 

The  prince  was  not  well  pleased  with  this  dream.  He 
determined  to  return  immediately,  and  rejoiced  that  he  had 
kept  his  journey  a  secret  from  every-body  but  the  queen,  his 
mother.  When  he  arrived  at  his  palace,  that  discreet  princess 
did  not  reprove,  or  laugh  at  him,  but  rather  consoled  him 
under  his  disappointment ;  and  advised  him  to  abstain  from  all 
excesses  in  future,  and  turn  his  thoughts  to  the  good  order  of 
his  kingdom,  and  the  happiness  of  his  subjects. 

Zeyn  was  much  relieved  by  this  conversation.  He  retired 
u>  rest ;  when  he  again  saw  the  old  man  in  a  dream,  who  said 


t86  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 


7%e  History  of  Prince  Zeyn  Alasnam,  and  the  King  of  t/u 
Genii. 

A  RING  of  Balsora,  who  possessed  great  wealth,  and  wa? 
beloved  by  his  subjects,  had  no  children,  which  was  a  greal 
affliction  to  him.  He  therefore  made  presents  to  all  the  holy 
persons  in  his  dominions,  to  engage  them  to  beg  of  heaven  to 
grant  him  a  son.  Their  prayers  proved  effectual.  The  queen 
was  happily  delivered  of  a  prince,  who  was  named  Zeyn  Alas- 
Dam,  which  signifies,  ornament  of  statues. 

The  king  called  all  the  astrologers  of  the  kingdom  to  calcu- 
late the  infant's  nativity.  They  found  he  would  live  long,  and 
be  very  brave;  but  that  all  his  courage  would  be  little 
enough  to  support  him  through  certain  difficulties  that  threat- 
ened him.  The  king  was  not  dismayed  at  this  prediction. 
"  My  son,"  said  he,  "  is  not  to  be  pitied,  since  he  will  be  brave. 
It  is  fit  that  princes  should  have  a  taste  of  misfortunes ;  adver- 
sity tries  virtue,  and  thence  they  become  the  fitter  to  reign." 

As  Zeyn  grew  up,  he  discovered  a  very  good  disposition 
and  by  the  care  of  his  father,  acquired  every  accomplishment 
He  had  nearly  attained  the  age  of  manhood,  when  the  good 
old  king  fell  sick  and  died. 

Zeyn  was  much  afflicted  at  the  death  of  his  father,  whom  he 
sincerely  loved ;  but  time  moderating  his  grief,  he  began  to 
enjoy  the  pleasures  of  a  throne.  He  entered  into  all  the  fol- 
lies and  vices  which  so  often  mislead  young  men.  He  was 
surrounded  with  parasites.  He  lavished  his  treasures  on 
unworthy  favorites,  on  whom  he  bestowed  also  the  first 
appointments  in  his  kingdom;  and  they  at  once  oppressed 
and  insulted  his  people. 

From  this  delusion  he  was  awakened  by  two  circumstances 
alike  distressing  and  disgraceful.  He  found  his  treasures  di* 
fipated,  and  his  subjects  ripe  for  a  revolt.  By  dismissing  his 
worthless  companions,  and  wholly  reforming  his  conduct,  he 
Appeased  his  people ;  but  the  waste  of  his  wealth  could  not  b€ 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  2& 

recalled ;  and  the  recollection  of  his  prodigality,  rendered  him 
very  unhappy. 

While  these  thoughts  had  possession  of  his  mind,  he  dreamt 
one  night,  that  a  venerable  old  man  came  towards  him,  and 
p-ndj  "  You  know,  Zeyn,  that  joy  and  sorrow  generally  succeed 
each  other.  If  you  would  put  an  end  to  your  present  afflictio, 
get  up ;  set  out  for  Egypt,  and  go  to  Grand  Cairo ;  a  greater 
fortune  attends  you  there,  than  you  have  lately  dissipated." 

The  prince,  when  he  awoke  in  the  morning,  reflected  on  his 
ireams  very  seriously.  He  resolved  at  length  to  set  out  for 
Cairo.  This  determination  made  it  necessary  to  commit  the 
government  of  the  kingdom  to  his  mother,  wh  •  tried  in  vain, 
by  serious  argument  and  by  ridicule,  to  stop  his  journey  on  so 
chimerical  a  business ;  but  the  appearance  of  the  old  man,  had 
made  so  great  an  impression  on  Zeyn,  that  he  was  fully  per- 
suaded his  dream  was  supernatural.  Having  therefore  disposed 
of  his  affairs,  he  set  out  one  night,  very  privately,  and  took 
the  road  to  Cairo,  without  suffering  any  person  to  attend  him. 

After  much  fatigue,  he  arrived  at  that  famous  city.  Being 
spent  with  weariness,  he  lay  down  at  the  gate  of  a  mosque, 
and  fell  asleep ;  when  he  saw  the  same  old  man,  who  said  to 
him,  "  I  am  well  pleased,  my  son,  that  you  have  given  credi 
to  my  words.  I  have  put  you  on  this  long  journey  to  try  if 
you  had  resolution.  I  find  you  deserve  I  should  make  you 
the  richest  man  in  the  world.  Return  to  Balsora,  and  you 
shall  find  immense  wealth  in  your  palace." 

The  prince  was  not  well  pleased  with  this  dream.  He 
determined  to  return  immediately,  and  rejoiced  that  he  had 
kept  his  journey  a  secret  from  every-body  but  the  queen,  his 
mother.  When  he  arrived  at  his  palace,  that  discreet  princess 
did  not  reprove,  or  laugh  at  him,  but  rather  consoled  him 
under  his  disappointment ;  and  advised  him  to  abstain  from  all 
excesses  in  future,  and  turn  his  thoughts  to  the  good  order  of 
his  kingdom,  and  the  happiness  of  his  subjects. 

Zeyn  was  much  relieved  by  this  conversation.  He  retired 
10  rest ;  when  he  again  saw  the  old  man  in  a  dream,  who  said 


290  ARAB    VN    NIGHT*' 

ward  on  foot,  and  as  they  proceeded,  Morabe ;  cautioned  tht 
prince  to  call  forth  all  his  courage.  "  We  are  now,"  said  he^ 
u  approaching  the  dreadful  place  where  the  ninth  statue  is 
kept,  and  shall  very  soon  come  to  a  lake.  When  we  draw 
near  the  banks  of  it,  you  will  see  a  boat  approach,  which  is 
enchanted,  and  belongs  to  the  king  of  the  genii.  We  shall  be 
taken  into  this  boat,  and  ferried  over  the  lake ;  but  you  must 
be  sareful  not  to  express  the  least  fear  at  the  sight  of  the 
waterman,  however  hideous  ho  may  be,  nor  must  you  utter  a 
single  word  while  we  are  embarked,  or  the  boat  will  instantly 
sink. 

Zeyn  promised  an  exact  obedience  to  those  injunctions.  They 
presently  came  to  the  lake,  ?Dd  found  the  boat  ready  to  receive 
them.  It  was  made  of  red  sanders,  had  a  mast  of  amber,  and 
a  satin  flag;  but  the  waterman  was  monstrous  and  terrible* 
He  had  the  head  of  an  elephaot,  and  the  body  of  a  tiger.  Zeyn 
drew  near  him  with  great  intrepidity.  He  lifted  the  prince 
first,  and  then  Morabec  into  his  boat  with  his  trunk ;  conveyed 
them  over  the  lake  in  a  moment ;  and  putting  them  on  shore 
in  the  same  manner,  immediately  vanished. 

"  Now,"  said  Morabec,  u  we  may  talk :  I  congratulate  you 
on  that  fortitude  and  self-command,  which  you  have  displayed, 
and  for  which  you  will  soon  have  fit-ill  greater  occasion.  We 
are  now  on  an  island  which  belongs,  to  the  king  of  the  genii. 
Look  around  you,  and  enjoy,  as  we  go  forward,  the  surpassing 
beauties  of  this  delightful  place."  Zeyn  saw  with  admiration 
the  enchanting  prospect.  The  fields  were  finely  disposed,  and 
adorned  with  all  sorts  of  odoriferous  plants  and  flowers ;  the 
trees  were  laden  with  the  most  delirious  fruit;  the  air  was 
uncommonly  soft  and  pleasant ;  and  ih<*  h.i— nonious  songs  of 
numberless  birds,  many  of  which  were  peculiar  to  that  island, 
enlivened  the  beautiful  scenes  around  them.  Ihe  prince, 
though  very  greatly  pleased  with  whr.t  *?«  beheld,  urged  his 
companion  to  hasten  forward  on  the  grr?f  business  thf  y  had 
undertaken. 

At  length  they  came  to  a  palace  built   :?  w*rsJL' ;  Wow 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  29  j 

the  gate,  which  fias  of  massy  gold,  there  stood  a  company  of. 
genii,  who  guarded  the  entrance  with  clubs  of  China  steel 
The  sight  of  these  terrific  sentinels  did  not  in  the  least  check 
the  ardor  of  the  prince !  he  was  pressing  forward,  when  Mora 
bee  caught  him  by  the  hand,  and  told  him  that  something  more 
than  human  virtues  or  talents  was  now  necessary.  He  then 
drew  from  a  purse  four  long  stripes  of  yellow  taffety ;  one  he 
put  about  his  middle,  and  the  other  on  ^his  back ;  giving  the 
remaining  two  to  the  prince,  who  did  the  same  with  them. 
Morabec  then  spread  two  large  cloths  on  the  ground,  and 
sprinkling  the  borders  of  them  with  precious  stones,  musk,  and 
amber,  he  seated  himself  in  the  midst  of  one  of  them,  and 
directed  Zeyn  to  place  himself  in  the  same  manner  on  the 
other.  "  I  will  now,"  said  he,  "  conjure  the  king  of  the  genii, 
wno  lives  in  the  palace  before  us,  that  he  may  come  to  us 
peaceably.  I  am  not  without  apprehension,  as  to  the  recep- 
tion he  may  choose  to  give  us.  If  our  coming  here  is  displeas- 
ing to  him,  he  will  appear  in  the  shape  of  a  horrible  monster; 
in  which  case  you  must  sit  still  and  keep  an  entire  silence, 
not  suffering  the  least  sound  to  escape  you.  If  he  is  favor- 
ably disposed  towards  us,  he  will  come  in  the  shape  of  a  hand- 
some young  man.  You  will  then,  as  soon  as  he  appears,  rise 
and  salute  him,  with  all  possible  respect;  and  tell  him  the 
business  which  brings  you  hither.  But  take  especial  care  not 
to  step  off  your  cloth,  or  you  will  certainly  perish." 

Morabec,  having  thus  instructed  the  prince,  began  his  con- 
juration. Immediately  their  eyes  were  dazzled  with  a  flash 
of  lightning,  which  was  followed  by  most  tremendous  thunder : 
the  whole  island  was  covered  with  a  hideous  darkness ;  a  storm 
of  wind  blew ;  a  dreadful  cry  was  heard ;  and  the  island  was 
shaken  by  an  earthquake,  such  as  Asrayel  is  to  cause  on  the 
Jay  of  judgment. 

The  steady  soul  of  the  prince  was  a  little  startled  at  these 
awful  appearances,  which  he  began  to  consider  as  very  il! 
omens.  Morabec  perceived  what  passed  in  his  mind,  and 
issured  him  that  all  was  well.  At  that  instant  the  k  ng  of  tht 


$92  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

genii  appeared,  a?  a  very  handsome  man,  yet  theie  was  i 
sternness  in  his  air. 

As  soon  as  prince  Zeyn  had  paid  his  compliments  and  re 
lated  what  he  came  in  search  of,  the  king  of  the  genii,  smiling 
answered,  "  My  son,  I  loved  your  father,  and  have  no  less 
kindness  for  you.  The  statues  you  found  were  presented  to 
him  by  me ;  and  I  promised  him  to  receive  you  into  my  pro- 
lection.  I  caused  him  to  write,  a  few  days  before  he  died,  that 
which  you  read  on  the  piece  of  white  satin.  I  appeared  to 
Y ou  in  your  dreams  as  an  old  man ;  and  have  been  the  cause 
i>f  all  that  hath  happened  to  you.  I  intend  to  give  you  what 
you  seek,  if  you  prove  worthy  of  it ;  and  the  test  must  be  this* 
You  must  engage  on  your  oath  to  find  out  a  maid  in  her 
fifteenth  year,  who  has  nevsr  known  man,  or  desired  to  do  sa 
She  must  be  perfectly  beaufiful ;  and  you  so  much  master  of 
yourself,  as  not  even  to  wi*  h  to  deprive  me  of  her ;  but  you 
must  yourself  conduct  her  hHber." 

Prince  Zeyn  took  without  hesitation  the  oath  that  was  re- 
quired of  him.  "  But,  sir,"  said  he,  "  how  shall  I  know  when 
I  have  met  with  such  a  maid."  "  It  is  true,"  replied  the 
king  of  the  genii,  that  knowledge  is  above  the  sons  of  Adam 
Take  therefore  this  looking-glass  j  If,  on  the  maid  looking  at 
it,  it  appears  sullied,  it  will  be  a  certain  sign  that  she  has 
not  been  always  undefiled ;  or,  at  least,  that  she  has  wished  to 
cease  being  so.  You  have  now  a  certain  criterion.  Be  dili- 
gent  in  your  search,  and  forget  not  the  oath  you  have  taken ; 
but  fulfil  it,  as  becomes  a  man  of  honor." 

The  king  of  the  genii  having  delivered  the  mirror  to  Zeyn, 
gave  him  and  Morabec  permission  to  depart.  They  returned 
to  the  lakr}.  The  waterman,  with  the  elephant's  head,  brought 
his  boat,  and  ferried  them  over.  They  joined  their  servants 
and  returned  to  Cairo. 

When  the  prince  had  rested  a  few  days,  he  began  to  applv 
himself  diligently  to  perform  his  engagement  with  the  king  o 
jhe  gtmii.  By  the  assistance  of  an  intriguing  old  woman, 
whom  Morabec  introduced  to  him,  Zeyn  obtained  access  U  al 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  29$ 

flie  beautiful  young  women  in  the  court  anl  city  of  Cairo 
He  saw  many  of  the  most  exquisite  beauty;  but  when  h« 
consulted  his  mirror,  the  fatal  touchstone  of  their  virtue,  it 
nlways  appeared  sullied. 

Zeyn,  thus  disappointed,  resolved  to  seek  elsewhere  for  that 
purity  which  was  not  to  be  found  in^Dairo.  He  travelled  to 
Bagdad,  attended  by  Morabec ;  and  as  he  wished  to  be  much 
known,  to  forward  his  inquiries,  took  a  handsome  palace,  ind 
fived  in  splendor. 

There  resided  in  that  quarter  of  the  city  an  imam,  whose 
name  was  Boubekir,  a  vain,  haughty,  envious  old  man;  he 
hated  the  rich  only  because  he  was  poor ;  and  under  the  ap- 
pearance of  an  austere  and  rigid  virtue  he  indulged  his  ill- 
nature  in  railing  at  the  luxury  of  those  who  were  in  prosperous 
circumstances.  By  this  hypocrisy,  and  by  often  haranguing 
the  people,  when  in  the  mosque,  he  had  acquired  considerable 
influence,  which  he  used  with  much  art,  to  gratify  the  malignity 
if  his  disposition. 

The  magnificence  of  prince  Zeyn  soon  rendered  him  obnox- 
ious to  the  imam,  which  was  increased  by  the  prince  taking  no 
notice  of  him.  Boubekir  took  an  opportunity  of  addressing 
the  people  one  evening  after  prayers ;  and  by  sly  insinuations, 
and  charges  half-suppressed,  he  irritated  them  against  the 
spendthrift  stranger,  as  he  called  him.  He  hinted  the  necessity 
of  giving  notice  to  the  council  of  Zeyn's  manner  of  living,  lest, 
if  arything  should  be  proved  against  him,  the  caliph  should  b« 
displeased  with  their  inattention.  In  short,  he  so  cajoled  th<s 
assembly,  that  they  agreed  to  present  a  memorial  against  7eyu 
to  the  council ;  and  gave  directions  to  Boubekir  to  prepare  it. 

Fortunately,  Morabec  was  at  prayers,  and  remained  unno- 
ticed among  the  crowd  ;  he  heard  all  that  passed.  He  imme- 
diately hastened  home ;  and  putting  five  hundred  pieces  ot 
gold  into  a  purse,  he  went  to  the  house  of  the  imam.  Boubekir 
received  him  with  his  usual  austerity,  and  surlily  asked  wha* 
he  wanted.  "  Doctor,"  replied  Morabec,  with  an  obliging  air, 
<urd  at  the  same  time  putting  the  purse  into  his  hard*  "  I  an 

25* 


|J4  ARABIAN   NiJHTS 

your  neighbor  and  your  servant ;  I  como  from  j.  rince  Zeyn 
who  lives  just  by  ;  he  has  heard  of  your  worth,  and  desires  the 
pleasure  of  your  acquaintance."  As  soon  as  the  purse  reached 
the  hand  of  the  imam,  his  rigor  melted  away.  "  Be  pleased^ 
sir,"  said  Le,  "  to  beg  the  prince's  pardon  for  me ;  I  am 
ashamed  I  have  not  yet  been  to  wait  on  him,  but  I  will  atone 
for  that  fault  to-morrow." 

Next  day,  after  morning  prayer,  Boubekir  said  to  th$ 
assembly,  "  You  know,  brethren,  that  no  man  is  without  ene- 
mies ;  and  that  envy  always  pursues  the  fortunate  and  merito- 
rious. The  stranger  I  spoke  to  you  about  yesterday,  is  no  ill 
man,  as  some  malicious  people  would  have  persuaded  me,  but 
a  young  prince,  possessed  cf  many  virtues.  It  would  be  dan- 
gerous as  well  as  indecent,  for  us  to  make  a  bad  report  of  him 
to  the  caliph." 

Boubekir  having  thus  done  away  the  unfavorable  impres- 
sion he  had  himself  made  on  the  people  concerning  Zeyn, 
waited  on  the  prince,  who  gave  him  a  courteous  reception. 
Morabec,  judging  that  such  a  busy  man  was  likely  to  know 
the  character  of  his  fellow-citizen?-,  advised  Zeyn  to  acquaint 
the  imam  with  the  search  he  was  shaking ;  nor  was  he  mista- 
ken. When  Boubekir  heard  the  relation,  he  cried  out,  "  that 
if  there  was  such  a  virgin  in  the  world,  he  knew  her."  In 
fact,  the  imam  now  became  Zeyn's  zealous  adherent,  introduced 
the  prince  to  a  young  lady,  the  daughter  of  a  vizier,  whose 
beauty  astonished  the  young  king  of  Balsora  ;  and,  on  pulling 
out  his  mirror,  to  try  if  the  maid  was  as  chaste  as  fair,  he  had 
the  satisfaction  to  find  it  remained  unsullied. 

Zeyn  having  at  last  succeeded  in  his  difficult  search, 
demanded  the  young  lady  of  her  father  in  marriage.  The 
vizier  gladly  consented ;  and  the  nuptials  were  celebrated 
with  splendor.  Zeyn  loaded  his  new  father-in-law  with  the 
most  costly  presents ;  nor  was  Boubekir  forgotten.  When  the 
company  were  dismissed,  Morabec  advised  his  master  to  set 
put  immediately  for  Cairo,  and  to  proceed  with  all 
to  the  fsland  of  the  king  of  the  genii. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  296 

Zeyn  did  not  listen  to  this  advice  with  his  usual  compla- 
cency. Morabec  found  him  strangely  balancing  whether  he 
should  keep  his  engagement  with  that  king,  or  conduct  hu 
charming  bride  to  Balsora,  in  defiance  of  him.  In  vain  Mora- 
bec pleaded  the  value  of  the  ninth  statue,  which  would 
reward  his  fidelity ;  in  vain  he  described  the  power  of  the 
king,  and  cautioned  the  prince  to  dread  the  consequence  of  his 
disobedience.  The  charms  of  the  lovely  virgin  had  taken  too 
full  possession  of  his  heart  for  him  to  be  allured  by  avarice, 
or  intimidated  by  danger ;  and  the  thought  of  sacrificing  her 
to  a  genie,  oppressed  him  with  grief  and  indignation. 

But  to  the  call  of  honor,  and  to  the  sanctity  of  an  oath,  Zeyn 
could  not  refuse  to  listen.  Morabec  pointed  out  these  obliga- 
tions, and  adjured  the  prince  to  subdue  his  passions,  and  fulfil 
his  engagement.  "Well  then,"  exclaimed  he,  "I  yield  to 
these  crael  obligations ;  let  us  set  out  with  all  haste  for  ihia 
fatal  island ;  and  do  you  conceal  the  lovely  maid  from  my 
sight.  Perhaps  I  have  already  seen  too  much  of  her." 

They  set  out  accordingly,  Zeyn  carefully  refraining  fron 
the  sight  of  his  bride  all  the  way.  On  their  arrival  at  the 
island,  it  became  necessary  to  acquaint  the  young  lady  witl 
her  destination.  The  grief  and  despair  she  expressed,  on 
receiving  the  information,  was  a  new  and  severe  trial  of  the 
prince's  fortitude.  He  persevered,  notwithstanding,  and  pre 
sented  her  to  the  king  of  the  genii.  The  sovereign  of  spirits, 
having  gazed  at  her  for  some  time  very  earnestly,  ordered  his 
attendants  to  convey  her  into  the  castle,  and  turning  to  Zeyn, 
who  could  scarcely  conceal  his  distress,  the  king  commended 
his  integrity  and  resolution.  "  I  am,"  said  he,  "  fully  satisfied 
with  your  behavior.  Return  to  your  dominions  ;  and  when 
you  enter  the  subterraneous  room,  where  the  eight  statues  are, 
you  shall  find  the  ninth,  which  I  promised  you." 

Zeyn  coldly  thanked  the  king  of  the  genii ;  and  having  taken 
leave  of  him,  returned  to  Balsora.  He  approached  bis  capi- 
tal, overwhelmed  with  affliction  for  the  loss  .»£  hie  bride ;  antf 


296  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

unceasingly  condemning  niinself  for  having  been  tlu  cause  o$ 
her  misfortune. 

On  his  arrival,  he  went  directly  to  give  his  mother  aft 
account  of  his  journey.  She  was  in  raptures  to  hear  he 
had  obtained  the  ninth  statue.  u  Let  us  go,  my  son,"  said  she, 
"  and  see  it  immediately ;  no  doubt  it  is  already  in  the  cham- 
ber under  ground,  since  the  king  of  the  genii  promised  yc-j 
should  find  it  there." 

Though  Zeyn's  desire  of  possessing  the  ninth  statue  was 
much  abated,  or  rather  forgotten,  through  his  excessive  grief, 
yet  he  had  too  much  respect  for  his  mother,  to  delay  attending 
her  to  the  subterraneous  apartment ;  but  how  great  was  their 
wonder,  when,  instead  of  a  diamond  statue,  they  found  on  the 
ninth  pedestal  a  most  beautiful  virgin,  whom  the  prince  knew 
to  be  the  same  he  had  conducted  to  the  island  of  the  genii. 
Before  they  could  recover  their  surprise,  a  loud  clap  of  thun- 
der shook  the  palace,  and  the  king  of  the  genii  appeared 
Before  them. 

Zeyn's  mother  was  much  terrified,  but  the  king  soon  dis 
pelled  her  fear.  "  Madam,"  said  he  to  her,  "  I  protect  and 
love  your  son ;  yet  it  was  proper  I  should  try  whether  he 
deserved  my  partiality,  before  I  gave  him  the  best  gift  in  my 
power.  I  had  the  pleasure  to  find  him  possessed  of  many, 
and  great  virtues ;  and  though  I  knew  he  did  not  punctually 
keep  his  word  with  me,  I  am  too  well  acquainted  with  the 
frailty  of  human  nature  to  wonder  that  the  charms  of  this 
beautiful  virgin  made  him  waver  in  his  fidelity."  Then  turn- 
ing  to  the  prince,  he  said,  "  Live  happy,  Zeyn,  with  this  young 
lady,  who  is  your  wife ;  love  her,  and  her  only,  and  I  will  b6 
answerable  for  her  fidelity.  This  —  this  is  the  ninth  statue? 
which  I  designed  for  you,  and  it  is  infinitely  more  precious 
than  all  the  rest ;  for  be  assured,  there  is  nothing  on  earth  te 
*e  compared  with  a  virtuous  and  lovely  woman." 


ENTERTAINMENTS 


The  History  of  Codadad  and  his  Brothers. 

THERE  reigned  formerly  in  the  city  of  Harran.  a  king 
called  Zaphnah.  He  was  beloved  by  his  subjects,  and  wanted 
nothing  to  complete  his  happiness  but  an  heir.  Though  he 
had  many  of  the  finest  women  in  his  seraglio,  yet  he  was  des 
titute  of  children.  He  continually  prayed  to  ^aven  for  them, 
and  one  night  the  prophet  appeared  to  him  in  ttts  sleep  and 
said, "  Zaphnah,  thy  prayers  are  heard,  and  thou  hast  obtained 
thy  desires.  Go  into  thy  garden  when  thou  wakest ;  gather 
a  pomegranate,  and  eat  as  many  seeds  as  thou  choosest,  and 
thy  wishes  shall  be  accomplished. 

In  the  morning,  the  king  obeyed  these  directions.  Having 
retimed  thanks  to  heaven,  he  went  into  the  garden,  wheio-  he 
took  fifty  pomegranate  seeds,  which  he  counted  and  ate. 
Zaphnah  had  fifty  wives,  who  all  of  them  shortly  after  proved 
with  child,  though  one  of  them,  named  Pirouze,  showed  no 
appearance  of  it.  The  king  was  so  disgusted  with  her  on  this 
account,  that  he  determined  to  put  her  to  death.  But  his  viz- 
ier, who  had  great  influence  over  him,  and  was  very  humane, 
interceded  so  strongly  for  her,  that  Zaphnah  suffered  himself 
to  h*  overcome.  "  Her  barrenness,"  said  he,  "  is  a  mark  of 
me  displeasure  of  Heaven.  Let  her  live ;  but  let  her  depart 
ny  court.  My  cousin,  the  prince  of  Samaria,  shall  receive 
ter.  If  she  is  with  child,  let  me  know  it  on  her  delivery ;  if 
tot,  let  me  never  hear  her  name  again." 

Pirouze  was  sent  accordingly  to  the  court  of  Samaria.  In 
lue  time,  the  other  nine  and  forty  ladies  were  each  delivered 
jf  a  prince,  and  while  Zaphnah  was  rejoicing  at  these  events, 
jews  arrived  that  Pirouze  had  also  produced  a  son,  whose 
ueauty  the  prince  of  Samaria  praised  in  the  highest  termj. 

Though  Zaphnah  was  much  pleased  at  the  birth  of  his  fiftieth 
son,  yet  being  ashamed  of  the  severity  with  which  he  had 
treated  his  mother,  he  determined  not  to  recall  her  to  Harran 
He  bent  her  compliments  of  congratulation  ;  but  at  the  sanif 


£98  ARABIAN    NIGHT'S 

time,  desired  his  cousin  would  give  the  child  the  name  of  Co 
dadad,  and  carefully  superintend  his  education;  sufficiently 
showing  by  these  orders  that  he  did  not  intend  soon  to  recall 
Pirouze  and  her  son  to  his  court. 

The  prince  of  Samaria  performed  his  office  with  the  great 
est  attention.  Codadad,  under  his  tuition,  became  one  of  th« 
most  accomplished  of  princes.  As  he  grew  up,  he  began  to  be 
impatient  to  visit  his  father's  court,  and  finding,  when  he  had 
reached  his  eighteenth  year,  that  Zaphnah  expressed  no 
desire  to  see  him,  he  threw  himself  at  his  mother's  feet,  and 
besought  her  permission  to  go  to  Harraa.  u  I  will  present 
myself,"  said  he,  "  to  my  royal  father,  without  discovering 
myself  to  him.  I  will  offer  him  my  services  ;  possibly  I  may 
be  so  fortunate  as  to  merit  his  esteem ;  and  he  will  then 
receive  me  as  his  son  without  reluctance." 

Pirouze  approved  ot  his  resolution,  and  Codadad  left  Sama- 
ria accordingly.  When  he  arrived  at  the  city  of  Harran,  he 
offered  his  services  to  the  king.  Zaphnah,  struck  with  his 
appearance,  and  perhaps  moved  by  a  natural  sympathy  in  his 
favor,  readily  accepted  of  them.  It  was  not  long  before  Co- 
dadad had  an  opportunity  to  signalize  his  bravery  in  such  a 
manner,  as  to  gain  the  high  approbation  of  the  king,  and  the 
applause  of  the  whole  army ;  nor  were  his  other  talents  less 
conspicuous.  Zaphnah's  affection  for  him  increased  daily. 
He  admired  his  discourse,  ever  full  of  wit  and  wisdom ;  and  at 
length,  to  show  how  much  he  approved  of  his  admirable  tal- 
ents, he  appointed  the  young  stranger  governor  of  his  forty- 
nine  sons,  though  he  was  apparently  of  the  same  age  with 
themselves. 

The  princes  had  before  seen,  with  a  jealous  eye,  the  pro 
gress  Codadad  daily  made  in  their  father's  favor.  Thife 
appointment  increased  their  envy  and  hatred.  They  received 
him  with  the  appearance  of  respect,  but  had  already  planned 
bis  destruction. 

After  a  few  days  they  came  together  to  their  new  governor 
tnd  requested  his  permission  to  take  a  dayV  hunting ;  rcaoiv 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  29<* 

hag  Co  go  to  some  other  city,  and  stay  there,  in  hope  that  theii 
father  would  revenge  their  supposed  loss  on  his  new  fav  orite, 
Bad  put  him  to  death.  Codadad  granted  their  request ;  but 
was  much  surprised  to  find  that  none  of  them  returned  in  the 
evening.  His  alarm  increased  when  the  next  day  and  the 
day  following  passed,  and  the  princes  still  continued  absent 
On  the  fourth  day  the  king  inquired  of  Codadad  where  hia 
sons  were,  and  why  he  had  not  seen  them  for  several  days. 
The  unfortunate  governor  was  obliged  to  tell  the  truth.  ZapL- 
nah,  as  the  princes  had  foreseen,  was  exceedingly  enraged 
"  Is  it  thus,  indiscreet  stranger,"  said  he,  "  that  you  begin  to 
discharge  the  important  trust  I  have  committed  to  you  ?  Go, 
find  my  sons  immediately,  or  expect  to  feel  the  utmost  weight 
of  my  resentment." 

Codadad,  though  much  afflicted,  thought  himself  fortunate 
to  have  escaped  so  well  out  of  the  king's  presence.  He  went 
borne,  and  having  armed  himself,  and  put  on  the  disguise  of  a 
shepherd,  he  left  the  city,  and  set  forward  in  search  of  his 
brothers. 

After  many  days  spent  in  vain,  he  arrived  at  a  plain  of 
great  extent,  in  the  middle  of  which  was  a  palace  of  black 
marble.  When  he  drew  near,  he  saw  at  one  of  the  windows 
a  most  beautiful  lady,  who  was  evidently  in  great  affliction. 
As  soon  as  she  saw  him,  she  called  out,  saying,  "  Alas,  young 
man !  get  away  as  fast  as  possible  from  this  fatal  place,  or 
you  will  fall  into  the  hands  of  the  monster  who  inhabits  it. 
A  cruel  black  giant,  who  feeds  chiefly  on  human  flesh,  resides 
in  this  palace :  he  seizes  on  all  persons  whose  ill  fortune 
conducts  them  to  this  plain,  and  shuts  them  up  in  his  dark 
dungeon ;  from  whence  they  are  never  let  out,  but  to  be  de- 
voured  by  him." 

Codadad  was  very  anxious  to  know  who  his  fair  informei 
was,  and  whether  he  could  not  release  her  out  of  the  castle. 
*  I  fell  into  the  hands  of  this  barbarian  yesterday  only,"  re 
plied  she.  "  He  destroyed  my  servants,  but  saved  me.  J  fear, 
lor  a  more  dieadful  fate.  You,  generous  stranger,  can  yield 


300  AKABIAN    NIGHTS' 

me  no  assistance.  Fly  with  all  speed;  the  monster  i»  not  fa*4 
off;  and  you  will  be  fortunate  L"  your  utmost  haste  can  save 
you." 

She  hdd  scarce  uttered  these  words,  when  the  black  appear* 
ed.  lie  was  a  man  of  enormous  size  and  dreadful  aspect, 
mounted  on  a  mighty  Tartar  horse,  and  wore  such  a  large  and 
weighty  scimetar,  that  no  one  but  himself  could  use  it.  The 
prince  w«*s  a  good  deal  startled  at  his  appearance,  but  drew 
his  scimetar,  and  stood  upon  his  defence.  The  giant,  despis- 
ing so  weak  an  adversary,  called  out  to  him  to  surrender,  wit! 
a  mixture  of  real  scorn  and  affected  gentleness  ;  but  Codadad 
soon  convinced  him  he  was  no  despicable  enemy ;  for  running 
briskly  up  to  him,  he  gave  him  a  violent  cut  on  the  knee.  The 
black,  feeling  himself  wounded,  gave  such  a  dreadful  shriek,  as 
made  all  the  plain  resound.  He  grew  enraged,  foamed  at  the 
mouth,  and  raising  himself  in  his  stirrups,  struck  at  Codadad 
with  his  dreadful  scimetar,  which  must  have  destroyed  him,  if 
be  had  not  with  great  dexterity  avoided  it.  The  scimetar  made 
a  great  hissing  in  the  air ;  but  before  the  giant  could  recover 
himself,  the  prince  aimed  a  noble  blow  at  his  right  arm,  and 
cut  it  off.  The  scimetar  fell  with  the  hand  that  held  it ;  and 
the  giant,  losing  his  seat  through  the  extremity  of  the  pain 
made  the  earth  quake  with  his  fall.  Codadad  ran  up  to  him, 
and  completed  the  victory  by  chopping  off  his  enemy's  head. 
The  lady,  who  had  been  a  spectator  of  the  combat,  seeing  the 
giant  destroyed,  gave  a  shout  for  joy ;  and  then  called  out  to 
the  conqueror  to  search  the  pockets  of  the  elain,  and  secure 
the  keys  of  the  castle. 

Codadad  having  followed  her  advice,  opened  the  first  door, 
where  the  lady  met  him,  and  would  have  embraced  his  knees 
fbr  her  deliverance,  but  he  prevented  her.  He  had  now  leisure 
to  contemplate  her  beauty ;  and  was  rejoiced  that  he  had  beec 
able  to  do  so  essential  a  service  to  so  lovely  a  woman.  Their 
conversation  was  interrupted  by  dismal  cries  and  groans.  Co- 
dadad  looked  round  to  find  whence  they  proceeded,  when  the 
lady,  pointing  to  a  little  door,  said,  "  There  is  the  place  where 


\   ===• 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  3<h 

a  number  of  unhappy  men  are  confined,  who  were  destineJ 
for  the  food  of  the  cruel  wretch  you  have  destroyed.  Every 
day  he  drew  out  one  to  be  devoured  "  "  It  is  an  addition  to 
my  joy,"  replied  the  prince,  "  that  I  am  the  means  of  saving 
so  many  unfortunate  persons  from  such  a  dreadful  end.  Come 
with  me,  madam,  and  share  in  the  pleasure  of  giving  them 
their  liberty." 

Codadad  went  accordingly  to  the  little  door,  when  the  prince 
put  a  key  into  the  lock,  which  proved  to  be  a  wrong  one 
All  the  prisoners,  supposing  it  was  the  giant,  sent  forth  groans 
and  lamentations.  Codadad  made  haste  to  change  the  key, 
and  having  opened  he  door,  descended  amongst  them.  He 
began  to  unchain  those  who  were  nearest  to  him,  and  made 
them  understand  that  he  had  slain  their  enemy,  and  was  come 
to  set  them  free.  As  the  report  spread  among  the  prisoners, 
shouts  of  a  very  different  nature  rent  the  cavern.  Those  first 
unchained  set  free  others,  and  in  a  very  little  time  they  were 
all  at  liberty ;  and,  leaving  the  dungeon,  ascended  joyfully  to 
light  and  life. 

When  they  were  come  into  the  court,  they  returned  thanks 
U>  their  deliverer,  in  terms  becoming  those  who  had  received  so 
great  a  benefit.  Codadad's  joy  was  unbounded,  when  he  found 
among  the  prisoners  the  nine  and  forty  princes,  his  brothers. 
He  embraced  them  with  the  sincerest  affection ;  not  without 
anxiety  till  he  found  every  one  of  them  was  safe ;  and  they, 
on  their  part,  gave  their  deliverer  all  the  praises  he  deserved. 

The  slaves  of  the  giant,  when  they  found  their  master  was 
slain,  fled  away  through  by-ways,  known  only  to  themselves. 
Codadad  found  the  castle  filled  with  the  wealth  the  giant  ha.i 
plundered  from  the  caravans.  All  this  treasure  he  divided 
among  the  prisoners,  who  found  horses  and  camels  in  the  stables 
sufficient  to  carry  away  the  merchandize ;  and  having  again 
returned  thanks  to  their  generous  benefactor,  every  man  sel 
forward  on  his  return  home. 

When  they  were  gone,  Codadad  asked  the  lady  what  placfc 
*he  designed  to  go  to ;  offering  to  conduct  her  whererer  sh€ 

26 


S02  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

rht>se.  "  I  am,"  replied  she,  "  of  a  country  far  remote  *ron 
hence ;  and  must  own  to  you  I  have  left  that  country  forevei 
After  the  obligations  I  owe  you,  sir,"  addressing  herself  tc 
<Jodadad,  "  I  will  not  conceal  my  situation  from  you.  I  am  * 
king's  daughter.  An  usurper  has  possessed  himself  of  my 
father's  throne,  after  having  murdered  him ;  and  I  have  beer 
forced  to  fly  for  my  life." 

The  History  of  the  Princess  of  Deryabar. 

*  THERE  is  in  a  certain  island,  a  great  city  called  Deryabar 
It  was  long  governed  by  a  potent  and  virtuous  king,  whost 
daughter  I  am. 

"  Not  many  years  after  my  birth,  as  he  was  hunting,  he  espied 
a  wild  ass,  which  he  chased.  Being  an  eager  sportsman,  he 
outrode  his  company,  and  pursued  his  game  alone  till  nighi 
drew  on.  He  then  alighted,  and  took  shelter  at  the  edge  of  a 
wood.  When  it  became  dark,  he  discovered  a  fire  at  some 
distance  among  the  trees,  which  made  him  conclude  some  vil- 
lage was  not  far  off.  But  he  found  the  light  proceeded  from 
a  large  fire,  kindled  in  an  open  hut,  in  which  sat  a  dreadful 
j^iant.  He  had  a  large  pitcher  of  wine  before  him,  and  was 
roasting  a  bullock  whole,  from  which  he  now  and  then  cut 
slices  and  eat  them.  In  another  part  of  the  hut  there  sat  a 
beautiful  woman,  seemingly  absorbed  in  grief;  her  hands  were 
bound,  and  at  her  feet  lay  a  child  of  two  or  three  years  old. 

"  My  father  contemplated  this  scene  with  indignation ;  but 
the  giant  was  evidently  too  powerful  to  be  coped  with  by  him 
alone,  and  no  other  means  of  delivering  the  prisoners  occurred 
1 3  him  at  that  moment.  While  he  meditated  on  these  matters, 
ths  giant  having  emptied  the  pitcher,  and  devoured  about  half 
of  the  bullock,  turned  to  the  woman  and  said,  *  Why  will  you, 
beautiful  princess,  oblige  me  to  treat  you  with  so  much  sever- 
ity ?  It  is  in  your  power  to  be  happy.  If  you  will  but  receive 
And  return  my  love,  I  will .'  <  Hideous  *  satjr !'  inter- 
rupted the  lady,  'I  shall  never  cease  to  abhor  you  \ou  will 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  303 

%Sways  be  a  monster  ir  my  eyes/  She  added  so  mary  re 
proaches  that  the  giant  grew  enraged.  4  This  is  too  much, 
cried  he  in  a  furious  tone ;  '  your  hatred,  madam,  has  pro* 
duced  mine.  I  will  no  longer  solicit  your  favors,  but  will 
punish  your  insults  by  depriving  you  of  life/  Having  said 
this,  he  drew  his  scimetar,  and  would  undoubtedly  have  put 
bis  threats  in  execution,  if  my  father  had  not  let  fly  an  arrow 
tfhich  pierced  the  giant's  breast,  so  that  he  dropped  down  dead. 

'4  My  father  entered  the  hut,  and  unbound  the  lady's  hands 
who  returned  him  abundant  thanks  for  b  is  timely  deliverance 
In  answer  to  his  inquiries,  she  told  him  that  she  was  the  wife 
of  a  captain  of  a  band  of  Saracens,  who  inhabited  the  sea-coast. 
This  wretch,'  continued  she,  <  was  one  of  his  principal  offi- 
cers. He  fell  desperately  in  love  with  me,  which  he  took  care 
to  conceal,  till  an  opportunity  offered,  a  few  days  ago,  to  seize 
me  and  my  child.  To  avoid  pursuit,  he  penetrated  far  into 
the  country  ;  and  though  he  ceased  not  continual  solicitations, 
yet  he  never  offered  me  any  violence  till  this  moment,  when 
it  pleased  heaven  to  deliver  me  from  him  by  your  means/ 

"My  father  said  everything  in  his  power  to  comfort  the 
lady.  The  next  day,  being  fortunately  joined  by  some  of  his 
re.inu^,  he  conducted  her  and  her  child  to  the  court  of  Dery- 
t*bar.  He  immediately  sent  a  messenger  to  the  country  of 
the  Saracens,  to  acquaint  the  captain  that  his  wife  and  her 
son  were  in  safety.  This  messenger  staying  longer  than  was 
expected,  several  others  were  despatched  at  different  times ; 
but  none  of  them  ever  returned.  My  father,  therefore,  deter- 
mined to  send  no  more ;  but  to  bring  up  the  boy  with  care, 
and  take  the  lady  into  his  protection ;  with  which  she  was 
well  satisfied. 

u  That  boy,  that  ungrateful  viper,  was  the  cause  of  all  my 
misfortunes.  As  we  were  near  of  an  age,  and  my  father  al- 
ways showed  great  kinaness  to  him,  he  took  it  into  his  head, 
when  he  arrived  at  manhood,  that  his  protector  intended  to 
give  me  to  him  for  a  wife.  For  a  while  he  waited  in  hope 
hia  patron  would  meet  his  wishes ;  during  wLIch  time  he  took 


504 


ARABIAN   NIGHTS 


pains  to  ingratiate  himself  with  all  ranks  of  people ;  and  when 
he  found  that  he  had  formed  to  himself  a  considerable  party, 
and  that  my  father  talked  of  giving  me  to  a  neighboring  prince, 
he  threw  off  the  mask,  and  boldly  demanded  my  hand  in  mar 
riage. 

"  My  father,  who  was  now  grown  old,  restrained  his  indig- 
nation at  the  young  man's  insolence,  and  contented  himself 
with  giving  him  a  flat  denial.  The  vain  fellow  forgot  hia 
obligations  to  his  preserver.  He  considered  this  refusal  as  a 
mortal  affront,  and  giving  way  to  his  indignation,  he  deter- 
mined on  revenge.  He  put  himself  on  a  sudden  at  the  head 
of  his  partizans ;  cruelly  murdered  his  venerable  benefactor, 
and  caused  himself  to  be  proclaimed  king  of  Deryabar.  His 
next  care  was  to  have  seized  me ;  but  the  grand  vizier,  a  faith- 
ful old  servant,  finding  it  impossible  to  make  head  against  the 
usurper,  hurried  me  from  the  palace  on  board  a  ship  that  was 
ready  to  sail,  and  delivered  me  out  of  his  hands. 

"  The  grand  vizier  intended  to  have  carried  me  to  the  court 
of  the  prince  who  was  to  have  been  my  husband,  not  doubting 
but  he  would  be  easily  excited  to  expel  the  traitor,  and  revenge 
my  father's  death.  But  providence  did  not  grant  success  to  a 
resolution  we  thought  so  just.  A  violent  storm  drove  our  ship 
about  for  many  days.  At  last  she  bilged  on  a  rock.  In  the 
horror  of  my  situation  I  lost  my  senses,  and  I  can  only  tell 
you,  that  when  I  recovered  I  found  myself  thrown  on  the 
shore,  on  a  part  of  the  wreck.  Every  one  else  on  board,  J 
have  no  doubt,  perished  in  the  sea. 

"  In  this  situation  I  was  found  by  the  king  of  the  country, 
who  chanced  to  be  riding  that  way.  Every  assistance  was 
given  to  me,  and  when  I  had  recovered,  and  related  my  story, 
the  king,  who  was  much  taken  with  me,  frankly  offered  tc 
make  me  amends  for  the  throne  I  had  lost  by  sharing  Ms  own 
with  me. 

"  The  king  was  young  and  amiable ;  and  though  my  illness 
and  affliction  had  prevented  my  having  received  any  great 
Impression  from  him,  gratitude  compelled  me  to  accept  his 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  801 

affer  Preparations  were  making  for  our  nuptials,  when,  in 
the  midst  of  this  joyful  bustle,  a  neighboring  prince  made  a 
descent  by  night  upon  the  island,  and  tinew  every  body  into 
confusion.  The  king  ordered  his  troops  to  be  got  together, 
intending  to  put  himself  at  their  head;  but  being  anxious 
for  my  preservation,  he  hastened  first  with  me  into  a  boat, 
intending  to  land  me  on  a  small  island  adjoining,  and  to  re- 
turn immediately.  Unfortunately  the  current  and  the  wind 
set  strongly  from  the  shore,  so  that  in  a  short  time  we  were 
driven  out  to  sea,  without  hope  of  recovering  the  island. 

"In  this  distress  we  thought  ourselves  fortunate  when  we 
espied  a  ship  coming  towards  us  ;  but  we  soon  found  our  mis- 
take. The  crew  consisted  of  a  dozen  armed  pirates.  They 
bound  the  king  in  a  chain,  and  then  being  attracted  by  my 
youth  and  beauty,  each  claimed  me  for  himself.  The  dispute 
ran  so  high,  that  they  proceeded  to  blows.  They  fought  till 
only  one  remained  alive ;  who  having  thrown  overboard  the 
bodies  of  his  companions,  came  up  to  me  and  said,  *  You  are 
now  mine ;  be  not  alarmed.  I  have  no  design  to  take  any 
liberties  with  your  person,  which  I  here  vow  to  hold  sacred.' 

"  I  was  greatly  rejoiced  at  this  unexpected  declaration.  '  Ah, 
sir,'  said  1, 6  complete  your  generosity  by  unbinding  my  hus- 
band and  setting  us  on  shore.'  I  was  about  to  have  declared 
who  he  was,  but  the  pirate  rising  hastily,  caught  hold  of  the 
prince  and  threw  him,  bound  as  he  was,  into  the  sea. 

"  At  this  terrible  event  I  swooned  away  ;  arid  when  I  i<e« 
covered  would  have  jumped  overboard  after  the  princo,  if  the 
pirate  had  not  prevented  me.  He  then  explained  to  me  the 
motive  of  that  promise  which  I  had  so  unfortunately  attributed 
to  virtue  and  honor.  '  I  intend,'  said  he, '  to  take  you  to  Caira 
and  present  you  to  a  great  emir,  my  patron,  to  whom  I  havt 
long  promised  a  beautiful  female  slave.  Have  I  not  then  acted 
kindly  by  your  husband  ;  would  not  his  affliction  ha*  3  beea 
insupportable  to  have  seen  you  in  the  arms  of  my  friend  ? ' 

«  Expostulation  was  in  vain.  I  had  only  to  comfort  myself 
that  his  attachment  to  his  patron  secured  me  from  personal 
26* 


806  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

insult      iVe  landed  soon  after ;  the  pirate  purchased  camelf 
and  slaves,  and  set  off  with  me  for  Cairo. 

"  We  had  been  several  days  on  the  road,  when  yesterday,  8* 
we  were  crossing  this  plain,  the  black  giant,  whom  you  have 
just  slain,  surprised  us.  Having  destroyed  the  pirate  and  hie 
slaves,  he  brought  me  to  his  castle,  and  invited  me  to  receive 
his  embraces;  but  finding  me  more  dead  than  alive  from 
terror,  he  desisted  from  his  entreaties,  and  gave  me  till  this 
evening  to  reconcile  myself  to  his  proposal :  fortunately  foi 
me,  you,  gallant  prince,  have  extricated  me  from  a  situation 
worse  than  death." 

When  the  princess  had  ended  the  recital  of  her  adventures, 
the  princes  all  joined  in  condoling  her  misfortunes,  and  Coda- 
iad  offered  to  receive  her  as  his  wife.  The  princess  had  not 
seen  him  with  indifference ;  she  accepted  his  proposal ;  and  as 
ike  palace  of  the  giant  abounded  with  every  necessary,  they 
reposed  themselves  there  for  several  days  ;  after  which,  they 
set  out  for  the  court  of  Zaphnah. 

When  they  were  within  one  day's  journey  of  Harran,  and 
had  halted  for  the  evening,  Codadad  called  the  princes  to- 
gether and  said,  u  I  have  too  long  concealed  from  you  who  I 
am.  Behold  your  brother  Codadad,  the  son  of  Pirouze ! " 
Having  said  this,  he  embraced  them  all,  and  each  of  them 
expressed  much  satisfaction  at  the  discovery  ;  but  very  differ- 
ent were  the  sentiments  of  these  unworthy  and  unnatural 
brothers.  At  night,  when  Codadad  and  the  princess  were 
retired  to  rest,  they  met  together,  and  one  of  them  addressing 
the  rest,  said,  "You  remember  how  much  our  father  preferred" 
and  cherished  this  dangerous  rival  of  ours,  even  while  he 
thought  him  a  stranger  ;  what  must  we  expect  now,  when  he 
proves  to  be  our  brother  ?  what,  when  he  can  boast  of  having 
destroyed  a  giant,  whom  all  of  us  together  were  forced  to  sub- 
to  ?  will  not  the  very  relief  he  gave  us,  become  an  argument 
to  prefer  him  before  us  all  ?  These  considerations  had  occur- 
red to  every  one  of  them.  Thev  went  to  the  tent  of  Codadad, 
rho  was  fast  asleep,  and  stabbed  him  in  a  thousand  places 


ENTERT^  INMENTS.  6Qt 

wliich,  the}  pursued  their  journey  to  Harran,  where  they 
arrived  the  next  day,  and  were  joyfully  received  by  theii 
father,  who  had  despaired  of  ever  seeing  them  again. 

Codadad,  meantime,  lay  in  his  tent  without  any  signs  of  life, 
The  princess  concluded  he  was  dead,  and  rent  the  air  with  her 
cries,  lamenting  the  fate  of  her  husband  and  deliverer ;  and 
adjuring  the  vengeance  of  heaven  on  his  murderers.  Aftei 
much  and  vehement  sorrow,  she  cast  her  eyes  on  Codadads 
and  perceived  that  he  breathed  a  little.  It  was  morning,  and 
she  saw  a  large  town  at  a  'distance.  As  she  had  no  slave,  she 
determined  to  leave  her  husband,  and  hasten  thither  for  assist- 
ance. She  returned  to  the  tent  with  a  surgeon ;  but  when 
ihey  arrived  there  they  could  not  find  Codadad.  They  con- 
eluded  he  had  been  devoured  by  some  wild  beasts.  The  prin- 
cess was  inconsolable.  The  surgeon  took  pity  on  her,  and 
conducted  her  to  his  own  house,  where,  though  he  knew  not 
her  rank,  he  treated  her  with  all  imaginable  respect. 

When  she  was  a  little  composed,  she  related  to  her  host  al1 
that  had  befallen  her.  "When  she  had  finished  her  story,  "  You 
do  not  well,  madam,"  said  the  surgeon,  "  to  give  way  thus  to 
an  unavailing  sorrow.  You  owe  more  to  the  memory  of  your 
princely  husband.  It  is  your  duty  to  revenge  him.  Let  me 
attend  you  as  your  squire  to  the  king  of  Harran's  court ;  nor 
fear  but  he  Will  do  you  justice." 

The  princess  of  Deryabar,  roused  by  these  considerations 
from  a  torpid  sorrow,  followed  the  advice  of  her  host;  and 
attended  by  him,  arrived  at  the  city  of  Harran.  The  surgeon 
'lodged  the  princess  in  a  caravansera,  and  went  out  to  inquire 
diligently  after  news.  He  learnt  that  Pirouze,  not  hearing 
of  her  son,  had  left  Samaria,  and  come  to  Harran  in  search  of 
him.  That  the  king,  before  her  arrival,  had  concluded  that 
Codadad  had  fled  to  some  other  country,  to  escape  his  resent- 
ment ;  but  when  he  knew  from  Pirouze  that  the  gallant  and 
accomplished  stranger  wus  his  other  son,  he  had  caused  dili- 
inquiry  «o  bo  made  after  him  in  all  the  adjoining  king 


80ft  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

dome  ;  and  had  ordered  public  prayers  to  be  put  up  in  all  la 
mosques,  for  the  safe  and  speedy  return  of  his  son. 

Pirouze  regularly  attended  these  devotions,  and  gave  alms  aV 
the  principal  mosque.  The  surgeon,  having  become  acquainted 
with  these  particulars,  went  the  next  day  to  the  masque;  and 
stopping  up  to  one  of  her  slaves,  he  whispered,  "  Brother,  I 
have  a  secret  of  moment  to  impart  to  the  princess  Pirouze ; 
may  not  I  by  your  assistance  be  brought  to  her  apartment  ?  *' 
The  slave  no  sooner  learnt  that  this  secret  related  to  Codadad, 
than  he  untreated  the  surgeon  to  return  with  him  to  the  palace ; 
and  as  soon  as  they  arrived  there,  he  introduced  him  to  Pi- 
louze.  He  related  to  her  everything  he  had  been  told  by 
the  princess  of  Deryabar,  and  told  her  where  that  lady  was  to 
be  found.  When  the  surgeon  was  withdrawn,  Pirouze  and 
her  attendants  resigned  themselves  to  grief  for  the  unhappy 
fate  of  Codadad.  In  the  midst  of  this  distress,  Zaphnah  enter- 
ed her  apartments.  Pirouze,  with  many  lamentations,  repeated 
the  surgeon's  account.  It  was  too  circumstantial  for  the  king 
to  doubt  its  truth.  Having  condoled  with  the  unhappy  mother 
on  their  mutual  loss,  he  withdrew,  not  more  oppressed  witL 
sorrow,  than  shaken  with  indignation. 

It  was  the  hour  of  public  audience.  Zaphnah  entered  the 
council-chamber  with  so  much  anger  in  his  countenance.,  that 
the  courtiers,  and  people  who  attended  with  petitions,  were 
alarmed.  Every  man's  heart  failed  him  for  fear.  Having 
ascended  the  throne,  the  king  called  for  the  grand  vizier. 
"  Take,"  said  he,  "  this  instant,  a  thousand  of  my  guards,  and 
seize  aR  the  princes,  my  sons ;  shut  them  up  in  the  tower 
appointed  for  murderers ;  see  that  not  one  of  them  escape." 
All  who  were  present  trembled  at  this  strange  command.  TLe 
vizier  laid  his  hand  upon  his  head  to  express  his  obedience, 
and  withdrew  to  execute  his  orders.  The  king  then  dismissed 
&e  as.^mbly  with  a  declaration  that  he  would  do  no  business 
tor  a  month  to  come. 

The  grand  vizier  having  secured  the  princes,  was  directed 
lyy  hk  master  to  conduct  the  princes  of  Peryabar  and  bei 


ENTERTAINMENTS  SOfe 

tquire  to  the  palace;  and  at  the  same  time  to  poclaim  who 
she  was,  and  in  what  manner  his  sons  had  incurred  his  dis- 
pleasure. The  princess  and  her  attendants  were  led  to  ^ourt, 
amidst  the  acclamations  of  the  people,  by  whom  Codadad  waa 
much  beloved,  while  every  one  uttered  execrations  against 
the  envious  and  ungrateful  brothers  who  had  treated  him  sc 
cruelly. 

When  the  princess  of  Deryabar  had  been  introduced  to 
Zaphnah  and  Pirouze,  and  had  received  their  embraces,  she 
demanded  of  the  king  justice  on  the  murderers  of  her  husband. 
"  Yes,  madam,"  replied  he, "  those  unnatural  vipers  shall  suffer 
as  they  deserve ;  though,  by  that  stroke  of  justice,  I  must 
again  become  childless.  Unfortunate  Codadad ! "  continued 
the  wretched  rather,  "  we  have  not  thy  remains,  yet  we  will 
not  omit  paying  thee  the  last  duties.  At  the  close  of  which, 
those  monsters  shall  atone  for  their  guilt  by  forfeiting  their 
lives." 

The  king  gave  orders  for  a  dome  of  white  marble  to  be 
erected  without  the  city,  and  every  preparation  to  be  made  for 
celebrating  the  obsequies  of  Codadad  in  the  most  honorable 
manner.  A  figure  resembling  the  prince  was  placed  in  it, 
and  all  the  inhabitants  of  the  city  went  out  to  assist  at  the 
ceremony.  The  king,  his  vizier,  and  the  principal  persons  of 
the  court,  entered  the  dome,  and  sat  down  on  carpets  made 
of  black  satin,  with  gold  borders.  A  great  body  of  guards, 
hanging  their  heads,  and  looking  down,  drew  up  about  the 
building,  and  marched  round  it  thrice,  observing  a  profound 
silence ;  at  the  third  round  they  halted  before  the  door ;  and 
all  of  them,  with  a  loud  voice,  cried  out,  "  O  prince,  son  of  the 
king !  could  we  by  the  power  of  the  sword  and  human  valor, 
any  way  retrieve  your  misfortune,  we  would  bring  you  back 
to  life.  But  the  king  of  kings  hath  commanded;  and  the 
Rngel  of  death  hath  obev^d."  Having  uttered  these  words 
they  drew  off,  and  made  way  lor  an  hundred  old  men ,  all  ot 
them  mounted  on  black  mules,  and  wearing  long  grey  bearda 

These  were  anchorites,  who  had  lived  all  their  days  COR 


310  ARABIAN    NltiilTS' 

cealed  in  caves.  They  never  appeared  in  the  sight  of  ths 
world,  but  when  they  were  to  assist  at  the  obsequies  of  the 
kings  of  Harran,  or  of  princes  of  their  family.  Each  of  these 
venerable  persons  carried  a  book  on  his  head,  which  he  held 
with  one  hand.  They  took  three  turns  round  the  dome,  and 
then  stopping  before  the  door,  one  of  them  said,  "  O  prince, 
what  can  we  do  for  you  ?  If  you  could  be  restored  to  life  by 
prayers  or  learning,  we  would  rub  our  grey  beards  at  thy  feet, 
and  recite  prayers ;  but  the  King  of  the  universe  hath  taken 
you  away  forever." 

The  old  men  withdrew  to  a  distance  from  the  dome,  and 
fifty  beautiful  maids  approached  it ;  each  of  them  mounted  on 
a  little  white  horse.  They  wore  no  veils,  and  carried  gold 
baskets,  full  of  all  sorts  of  precious  stones.  They  also  rode 
three  times  round  the  dome ;  and  halting  at  the  same  place  as 
the  others  had  done,  the  youngest  of  them  spoke  in  the  name 
of  the  rest,  "  O  prince,  once  so  beautiful !  what  relief  can  you 
expect  from  us?  If  we  could  restore  you  to  life  by  our 
charms,  we  would  become  your  slaves ;  but  you  are  no  longer 
sensible  to  beauty,  and  have  no  more  occasion  for  us." 

When  the  young  maids  were  withdrawn,  the  king  and  his 
courtiers  arose ;  and  having  walked  three  times  round  the  fig- 
ure resembling  Codadad,  the  king  spake  as  follows : "  O  my 
dear  son !  light  of  my  eyes  !  I  have  then  lost  you  forever ! " 
These  words  were  accompanied  with  many  sighs  and  tears, 
the  courtiers  joining  their  master  in  paying  this  tribute  to  the 
prince.  The  gate  of  the  tomb  was  then  shut,  and  all  the  peo- 
ple returned  to  the  city. 

Suitable  public  prayers  were  repeated  in  all  the  mosques 
tor  eight  days  successively ;  on  the  ninth,  the  king  had  ordered 
the  princes,  his  sons,  to  be  beheaded ;  the  scaffold  was  ready, 
hut  the  execution  was  stopped  by  news  arriving  that  some 
neighboring  princes,  who  had  before  made  war  against  ths 
king  of  Harran,  were  approaching  the  capital  at  the  head  of 
a  numerous  army.  The  king  mustered  his  troops,  and  march 
ing  out  of  the  city,  prepared  to  receive  his  enemies. 


ENTERTAINMEN  IS  31  > 

On  their  approach,  the  citizens  of  Harran  attacked  .Lem, 
wid  a  desperate  battle  ensued.  Victory,  long  doubtful,  seemed 
at  last  to  incline  to  the  invaders,  when  a  large  body  of  horse 
appeared  on  the  plain  in  good  order,  and  drew  near  the  two 
armies.  Each  party  were  alarmed,  dreading  a  new  enemy ; 
but  the  matter  was  soon  out  of  doubt ;  the  horsemen  fell  upon 
the  flank  of  the  king  of  Harran's  opponents,  and  gave  them 
so  furious  a  charge,  that  they  decided  the  fortune  of  th«  day ; 
a  total  rout  ensued,  in  which  the  greater  part  of  the  invaders 
were  put  to  the  sword. 

The  king  of  Harran  had  much  admired  the  gallantry  of 
these  unexpected  allies,  and  the  skill  and  intrepidity  of  theii 
leader ;  and  the  battle  being  over,  he  hastened  to  thank  him. 
The  hero  proved  to  be  Codadad.  Zaphnah  became  motion- 
less with  surprise  and  joy.  When  he  recovered,  he  flew  to 
the  arms  of  his  son,  who  received  and  returned  his  embrace, 
with  duty  and  affection. 

Zaphnah  left  the  army  to  the  care  of  the  grand  vizier,  ana 
went  immediately  with  his  son  to  the  palace;  he  there  intro- 
duced to  him  Pirouze  and  the  princess  of  Deryabar ;  the  joy 
of  those  illustrious  persons,  so  dear  to  each  other,  may  be 
better  imagined  than  expressed. 

Codadad  told  them  that  a  peasant  mounted  on  a  mule  hap- 
pening to  pass  by  the  tent,  and  seeing  him  alone,  wounded 
and  senseless,  had  conveyed  him  to  his  house ;  where,  by  the 
application  of  certain  herbs  chewed,  he  recovered  him. 
"  Finding  myself  well,"  continued  he,"  I  resolved  to  search 
everywhere  for  my  beloved  princess ;  but  as  I  heard  of  thf 
attack  which  was  meditating  against  my  royal  father,  I  deter* 
mined  first  to  assist  him.  I  made  myself  known  to  the  vil- 
lagers ;  and  having  diligently  trained  a  body  of  them  to  arms, 
[  had  the  good  fortune  to  arrive  with  them  at  a  time  they  were 
singularly  useful." 

When  he  had  finished  his  narrative,  the  king  said,  "  Let  u? 
foe  thankful  to  heaven  for  this  happy  arid  unexpected  meet 
ing;  V»wit  it  shall  not  prevent  the  just  punishment  of  thosr 


6l2  ARABUN    NIGHTS' 

traitors  wht  meant  to  have  destroyed  their  brother  and  d<i  iv 
erer ;  their  intentions  were  not  less  wicked  because  they  failed 
in  the  execution  of  them,  nor  shall  their  punishment  be  less 
severe." 

"  Sir,"  replied  the  generous  Codadad,  though  they  little 
deserve  that  honor,  yet  they  are  your  own  flesh  and  blood ; 
they  are  my  brothers ;  they  have  been  sufficiently  punished 
for  their  offence ;  I  forgive  them,  and  I  entreat  your  majesty 
to  pardon  them  also." 

Pirouze  and  the  princess  of  Deryabar  joined  in  this  request. 
'I  he  king  was  highly  pleased  with  their  generosity ;  he  caused 
the  people  to  be  assembled,  and  ordered  the  princes  to  bo 
brought  out,  loaded  with  chains,  and  expecting  immediate 
death.  The  king,  before  them  all,  caused  Codadad  to  be  pro- 
claimed his  heir,  and  added,  that  at  his  intercession,  pardon 
was  extended  to  the  unworthy  princes.  The  people  loudly 
applauded  the  noble  behavior  of  Codadad,  who  himself  re- 
.eased  the  prisoners  from  their  fetters,  and  embraced  them 
with  much  affection. 

On  his  return  to  the  palace,  he  amply  rewarded  the  surgeon 
who  had  so  faithfully  served  the  princess  of  Deryabar.  Zaph- 
nah  and  Pirouze  passed  the  rest  of  their  days  very  happily 
with  that  princess  and  their  beloved  Codadad 

The  Story  of  the  Sleeper  awakened,  or  the  Dead  alive. 

ABON  HASSAN  was  the  son  of  Selim,  a  wealthy  and  penu 
rious  citizen  of  Bagdad ;  who,  though  he  was  possessed  of  a 
good  estate,  and  had  gained  great  wealth  by  many  years'  suc- 
cessful traffic,  yet  he  scarcely  allowed  his  family  necessaries. 
When  the  young  man  grew  up,  he  had  a  turn  for  gaiety ;  but 
the  extreme  avarice  of  his  father  not  only  denied  him  the 
usual  amusements  of  youth,  but  gave  him  no  respite  from 
labor;  making  no  difference  between  him  and  his  meanest 
tlave. 

The  death  of  the  merchant  put  an  end  to  thin  restraint  or 


ENTEU"  LlNMENTS.  SIS 

Abon  I  ASS? ji.  He  found  himself  heir  to  a  plentiful  fortune 
and  he  resolved  to  make  himself  amends  foi  the  severe  disci* 
pline  he  had  undergone ;  but  before  he  began  his  career,  he 
showed  a  good  understanding  and  a  good  heart ;  he  settled  a 
proper  provision  on  his  mother ;  and  dividing  his  wealth  into 
equal  parts,  with  the  one  part  he  increased  his  patrimony ; 
this  he  determined  never  to  break  in  upon ;  the  remainder  he 
devoted  to  enjoyment. 

To  obtain  this,  he  sought  the  company  of  young  men  of  the 
first  distinction  in  Bagdad.  As  he  was  known  to  be  wealthy, 
he  easily  became  intimate  with  such  of  them  as  were  noted 
for  their  debauchery.  To  these  he  gave  the  most  costly  enter- 
tainments. The  profusion  of  his  table,  his  magnificent  balls 
and  concerts,  would  have  dissipated  a  royal  revenue  ;  and  he 
found  the  wealth  he  had  set  apart  for  a  life  of  prodigality 
was  dispersed  before  a  single  year  had  passed  away. 

Abon  Hassan  was  astonished  at  the  report  of  his  steward, 
that  so  large  a  part  of  his  fortune  was  exhausted.     He  re- 
newed immediately  his  resolution  to  keep  his  patrimony  unim- 
paired, nor  even  to  break  in  upon  the  improvement  he  had 
made  to  it.     He  gave  no  more  magnificent  entertainments ;  he 
sold  off  his  useless  slaves   and   splendid   furniture,  and  pre- 
pared to  regulate  his  expenses  by  his  remaining  income.     But 
while  this  was  doing,  he  felt  the  force  of  youthful  attachment 
lo  many  of  his  companions,  and  was  amazed  and  chagrined  to 
find  that  they  all  avoided  him.     The  news  of  his  ruin   hadV 
spread  abroad ;  his  prudent  reserve  no  one  knew  of.     All  his  j 
gay  friends  therefore  treated  him  with  contempt ;  and  when,  ' 
to  try  them  still  further,  he  attempted  to  borrow  a  supply  of 
them,  many  insulted  him,  all  refused  him. 

Irritated  with  this  ungenerous  behavior,  he  renounced  them 
-  in  his  turn.  He  retired  to  the  house  of  his  father,  where  his 
mother  still  dwelt,  and  began  a  new  course  of  life.  As  he 
had  enough  left  to  entertain  a  guest  handsomely,  and  was  fond 
*f  society,  he  every  day  provided  what  he  thought  necessary 
»br  thrt  purpose ;  and  in  the  evening  he  went  and  sat  cu  Bag- 


tf!4  ARABIAN    M GUTS' 

dad  bridge:  wLere;  as  soon  as  be  saw  any  strangei 
whose  appearance  pleased  him,  he  accosted  Lim  respectfully 
and  invited  him  to  sup  and  lodge  with  him  for  that  night. 

Abon  Hassan,  on  these  occasions,  failed  not  to  acquaint  bra 
guest  with  an  oath  he  had  taken  ;  which  was,  never  to  give  an 
entertainment  to  an  inhabitant  of  Bagdad ;  never  to  invite  any 
man  a  second  time,  or  keep  up  any  kind  of  acquaintance  with 
any  of  his  guests  after  their  parting.  This  premised,  he  used 
to  conduct  the  stranger  home  ;  regale  him  with  a  good  supper, 
and  lodge  him  comfortably.  In  the  morning,  he  always  said 
to  him,  "  God  preserve  you  from  all  sorrow  !  when  I  invik  d 
you  hither  yesterday,  I  acquainted  you  with  my  oath  ;  I  hope, 
therefore,  you  will  not  take  it  ill,  if  I  bid  you  farewell ;  and 
may  God  conduct  you." 

On  these  terms  he  chanced  one  evening  to  engage  a  stran- 
ger of  respectable  appearance,  whom  he  supposed  to  be  a 
merchant  of  Moussol,  but  who  in  reality  was  the  caliph, 
Haroun  Alraschid  ;  who,  in  that  disguise,  was  taking  one  of  his 
customary  surveys  of  the  city.  The  invitation  was  so  singu- 
lar, that  it  excited  the  caliph's  curiosity,  and  he  readily 
accepted  it.  Abon  Hassan  conducted  him  home,  placed  him 
at  the  upper  end  of  his  table,  and  sat  down  over  against  him. 
A  handsome  supper  and  dessert  were  served  up,  and  they  ate 
of  what  they  liked  best,  without  speaking  or  drinking,  accord- 
ing to  the  custom  of  the  country. 

When  they  had  done  eating,  Abon  Hassan  filled  cut  a  glass 
of  wine,  and  said  to  his  guest,  laughing,  "  You  know,  sir,'  the 
cock  never  drinks  before  he  calls  to  his  hens  to  come  arid 
drink  with  him,  so  I  invite  you  to  follow  my  example.  I  can- 
not reckon  him  a  wise  man  who  does  not  love  a  cheerful 
glass."  "I  am  quite  of  your  opinion,"  replied  the  caliph, 
Uiking  a  bumper,  "  and  am  sure  you  are  an  honest  fellow ;  fill 
a\  iay ;  you  shall  find  I  am  ready  to  partake  with  you." 

They  grew  merry  over  their  cups.     Abon  Hassan  being  of 
A  lively  Disposition,  entertained  his  guest  with  a  thousand  bril- 
sallies.     At  his  request  he  explained   the  cause  of  tlw 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  31  i 

row  he  had  made  to  receive  only  strangers,  and  no  m  in  a  seo 
ond  time  ;  and  related,  with  much  humor,  the  story  of  his  own 
extravagance,  and  the  ill  behavior  of  his  former  companions. 

The  caliph  was  delighted  with  the  wit  of  his  host,  and 
respected  his  understanding.  When  it  grew  time  to  retire,  ha 
said  to  him,  "  I  regret  exceedingly  the  oath  you  have  taken, 
as  it  deprives  me  of  all  hopes  of  being  better  known  to  you , 
but  yet  I  wish  to  show  you  how  sensible  I  am  of  your  hospi- 
laxity.  It  is  more  in  my  power  to  serve  you,  than  you  are 
aware  of.  Speak  freely,  and  tell  me  what  you  would  wish  for, 
if  you  were  sure  of  obtaining  your  desires." 

Abon  Hassan,  who  was  a  little  elevated  with  the  liquor  he 
had  drank,  replied  briskly,  "  I  thank  you  for  your  offers  of 
service;  but  in  truth  have  no  desires  that  you  can  gratify. 
My  fortune  is  sufficient ;  I  have  no  ambition,  unless  indeed 
you  could  make  me  caliph  for  four  and  twenty  hours."  "  And 
why,"  interrupted  Haroun,  eagerly,  "  should  you  desire  that 
honor  for  so  short  a  time  ? "  "  It  would  be  long  enough," 
replied  Abon  Hassan,  "  to  answer  all  my  wishi  s.  The  town 
of  Bagdad  is  divided  into  various  districts,  in  each  of  which 
there  is  a  mosque,  and  an  imam  belonging  to  it  to  read  prayers. 
The  imam  of  the  division  I  live  in,  is  an  old  man  of  austere 
countenance,  and  the  greatest  hypocrite  in  the  world.  This 
man,  and  four  old  fellows  of  the  neighborhood,  who  are  people 
of  the  same  disposition,  meet  every  day  at  the  imam's  house ; 
where  they  vent  their  malice  against  me,  and  the  whole  dis- 
trict, to  the  great  disturbance  of  the  neighbors,  and  the  pro- 
motion of  perpetual  dissensions.  Instead  of  minding  theif 
Alcoran,  and  being  at  peace  with  all  men,  they  threaten  some, 
abuse  others,  and  wish  to  domineer  over  every-body.  Was  I 
caliph  for  one  day  only,  I  would  remove  this  nuisance ;  for  I 
would  order  each  of  the  old  men  an  hundred  bastinadoes,  and 
the  good  imam  four  times  as  many,  that  they  might  learn  nc 
more  to  abuse  and  disturb  their  neighbors." 

The  caliph  laughed  heartily  at  his  host's  narrative,  and 
mmediately  conceived  the  idea  of  a  whimsical  acven'iire 


116  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

Abcc  Hassan  renewing  the  conversation,  observed  that  it 
late.  "  Let  us  finish  the  bottle,"  said  he,  "  and  I  will  bid  }oc 
farewell  to-night;  only  let  me  request  of  you,  if  you  rise 
before  me,  that  you  will  shut  the  door  when  you  go  out  in  the 
morning.  This  the  caliph  promised  ;  and  taking  hold  of  the 
bottle,  said,  "  You  have  been  so  obliging  as  to  fill  for  me  the 
whole  night,  permit  me  to  pour  out  the  last  glass,  and  drink  to 
your  repose."  He  then  dexterously  conveyed  a  little  powder 
into  Abon  Hassan's  glass,  and  handed  it  to  him ;  who,  being 
much  pleased  with  the  politeness  of  his  guest,  drank  it,  and 
had  scarce  time  to  set  the  glass  on  the  table,  before  he  fell  into 
a  profound  sleep. 

The  caliph  ordered  the  slave  who  attended  him,  to  take 
Abon  Hassan  on  his  back,  and  convey  him  to  the  palace, 
where  he  caused  him  to  be  undressed,  and  laid  in  the  royal 
bed.  He  directed  Giafar  to  attend  the  sleeper  in  the  morning 
and  salute  him  as  commander  of  the  faithful ;  and  to  take  care 
that  all  the  emirs  and  courtiers,  as  well  as  the  attendants, 
should  address  him  with  the  usual  ceremonies  which  were 
observed  to  himself. 

Early  in  the  morning  the  caliph  took  possession  of  a  little 
closet,  from  whence  he  could  see  all  that  passed ;  impatient  to 
enjoy  the  surprise  of  Abon  Hassan,  and  see  how  he  would 
support  his  imaginary  dignity. 

At  daybreak  all  the  officers  and  ladies,  whose  duty  it  was 
to  attend  the  rising  of  the  caliph,  took  their  places  with  great 
silence.  One  of  them  putting  a  sponge  steeped  in  vinegar  to 
Abon  Hassan's  nose,  he  sneezed  heartily,  which  awakened 
him.  On  opening  his  eyes,  he  found  that  he  was  in  a  magni- 
ficent room,  surrounded  by  a  great  many  young  and  handsome 
ladies,  and. black  eunuchs  richly  clothed;  all  standing  with 
great  modesty  and  respect.  Casting  his  eyes  on  the  quilt  of 
\he  bed,  he  perceived  it  was  cloth  of  gold  richly  ornamented 
with  pearls  and  diamonds ;  and  that  there  was  laid  by  the  bed 
%  very  rich  habit,  and  a  caliph's  turban. 

At  the  sight  of  all  these  splendid  objec\  <   Abon  Hassan  wai 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  311 

flj  the  utmost  confusion  and  amazement,  "  So,"  said  he  to 
himself,  "  I  am  caliph !  but,"  added  he,  after  a  moment's  pause, 
u  ds  only  a  dream :  the  effect  of  the  wish  I  made  last  night.* 
Saying  this,  he  turned  himself  about  to  sleep  again,  when  012 e 
of  the  eunuchs  approached  the  bed,  and  said  very  respectfully, 
*  commander  of  the  faithful,  'tis  time  for  your  majesty  to  rise 
to  prayers ;  the  morning  begins  to  advance." 

The  astonishment  of  Abon  Hassan  was  inexpressible.  "  la 
it  possible  I  am  awake  ?  "  said  he  to  himself.  <*  Oh,  certainly, 
I  am  asleep,"  continued  he,  shutting  his  eyes  again,  "  there  is 
no  reason  to  doubt  it." 

The  eunuch  finding  Abon  Hassan  did  not  rise,  said  again, 
u  Your  majesty  will,  I  hope,  permit  me  to  tell  you,  that  it  is 
time  to  attend  morning  prayer,  which  you  never  neglect ;  the 
sun  is  just  rising."  "  I  am  mistaken,"  thought  Abon  Hassan, 
4 1  am  awake.  Those  that  sleep  do  not  hear  thus  distinctly." 
Then  opening  his  eyes,  and  sitting  up  in  his  bed,  he  seemed 
overjoyed  at  his  promotion,  to  the  great  entertainment  of  the 
caliph,  who  guessed  very  exactly  what  his  thoughts  were. 

When  Abon  Hassan  began  to  arise,  all  the  ladies  of  the 
palace  prostrated  themselves  before  him,  with  their  faces  to 
the  ground ;  they  then  saluted  him  with  a  delightful  serenade, 
with  which  he  was  so  ravished,  that  he  was  hi  perfect  ecstasy. 
But  recovering  his  first  idea,  he  again  doubted  if  it  was  not  a 
dream :  he  clapped  his  hands  before  his  eyes,  lowered  his 
head,  and  again  said  to  himself,  "  What  can  all  this  mean  ? 
Where  am  I  ?  Who  are  these  ladies  and  attendants  ?  How 
shall  I  possibly  distinguish  that  I  am  awake,  and  in  my  righi 
senses  ?  " 

While  these  thoughts  were  passing  in  his  mind,  Mesrour, 
the  chief  of  the  eunuchs,  came  in,  and  having  paid  the  propei 
compliments,  said,  "  Commander  of  the  faithful,  the  time  of 
prayer  is  over ;  all  your  generals,  governors,  and  office*  A  of 
state,  wait  your  royal  presence  in  the  council-hall.  Will  you; 
majesty  be  pleased  to  ascend  your  throne  as  usual  ?  " 

Abon  Hassan  was  convinced  now  that  he  was  awake,  buff 
27* 


H18  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

he  was  also  still  more  embarrassed.  After  a  pause,  he  looked 
earnestly  at  Mesrour,  and  said,  "  Who  is  it  that  you  speak  to, 
Bnd  call  commander  of  the  faithful  ?  I  don't  know  you,  and 
you  mistake  me  for  somebody  else." 

Mesrour  affected  an  air  of  astonishment,  and  replied,  "  My 
worthy  lord  and  master,  you  only  speak  thus  to  jeer  me.  Is 
not  your  majesty  commander  of  the  faithful,  monarch  of  the 
world,  and  the  prophet's  vicar  on  earth  ?  Mesrour,  your  faith- 
fill  slave,  who  has  had  the  honor  and  happiness  to  serve  yon 
BO  many  years,  cannot  forget  or  mistake  you.  Some  trouble 
some  dream  must  have  disturbed  your  majesty's  imagination. 

Abon  Hassan  burst  out  a  laughing  at  these  words  of  Mes- 
rour. When  he  had  recovered  himself,  seeing  a  little  black 
eunuch,  he  beckoned  him,  and  said,  "  Hark  ye,  child ;  tell  me 
who  I  am."  "  Sir,"  answered  the  little  boy  modestly,  "  your 
majesty  is  commander  of  the  true  believers,  and  the  prophet's 
vicar  on  earth."  "You  are  a  liar,  sooty-face,"  said  Abon 
Hassan.  He  then  called  the  lady  who  stood  nearest  him, 
saying,  "  Come  hither,  fair  one,  and  bite  the  end  of  my  finger, 
that  I  may  know  whether  I  am  awake  or  not" 

The  lady,  who  knew  the  caliph  saw  all  that  passed,  was 
overjoyed  at  being  thus  called  upon  to  contribute  to  his  amuse- 
ment: going,  therefore,  with  a  grave  face  to  Abon  Hassan, 
she  put  his  finger  into  her  mouth,  and  clenched  it  so  hard 
between  her  teeth,  that  he  roared  aloud,  and  with  difficulty 
pulled  it  away  from  her.  When  the  pain  was  a  little  abated, 
he  said,  "  You  have  convinced  me  that  I  am  not  asleep ;  but 
how  is  it  possible  that  I  can  have  become  caliph  in  one  night  ? 
I  adjure  you,  therefore;  to  tell  me  the  truth."  "  It  is  so  true/* 
replied  the  lady,  "  that  we,  your  slaves,  are  amazed  to  hea* 
you  doubt  it"  "  Ah !  you  are  a  deceiver,"  replied  Abon  Has- 
san, "  I  know  very  well  who  I  am." 

Mesrour  assisted  his  new  master  to  rise ;  and  as  soon  a  he 
*et  his  feet  on  the  floor,  the  whole  company  of  ladies  ind 
officers  cried  out  together,  "  God  preserve  your  majesty  \ad 
gne  you  a  good  day."  Mesrour  then  arrayed  him  V  to 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  31  * 

foyal  robes,  and  conducted  him  through  rows  of  pi  ostrate  court 
•ers  to  the  council-chamber,  where  he  mounted  the  throne  oi 
Persia,  which  he  filled  with  all  the  gravity  imaginable. 

The  grand  vizier  Giafar,  and  the  judge  of  the  police,  (bot> 
of  whom  he  knew  by  having  often  seen  them  in  their  ofnces,) 
fir^t  bowed  themselves  down  before  him,  and  paid  Lira  the 
salutation  of  the  morning.  After  which  all  the  emirs,  as  they 
were  admitted  to  their  seats,  went  to  the  foot  of  the  throne, 
and  having  laid  their  heads  on  the  carpet,  they  saluted  him 
on  their  knees,  as  commander  of  the  faithful,  and  the  prophet's 
vicar  on  earth. 

Although  Abon  Hassan  had  before  been  elated  with  his 
advancement,  his  recollection  forbade  him  to  believe  it.  But 
when  he  found  himself  thus  received  by  the  grand  vizier,  and 
all  the  great  men  about  the  court,  he  could  no  longer  doub< 
but  he  was  caliph,  though  he  could  no  way  account  for  his 
having  become  so.  Dismissing,  therefore,  for  the  present,  all 
thought  upon  the  subject,  he  prepared  to  enjoy  his  good  for- 
tune, and  exercise  his  sovereignty.  He  beckoned  the  judge 
of  the  police  to  him,  and  directed  him  to  go  to  such  a  division 
of  the  city,  to  seize  the  imam  of  the  mosque  and  four  old  men, 
whom  he  described;  to  give  each  of  the  latter  an  hundred 
bastinadoes,  and  the  imam  four  hundred.  "  This  done,"  con- 
tinued he,  "  mount  them  on  five  camels,  with  their  faces  to  the 
tails,  lead  them  through  the  whole  city,  and  let  a  crier  proclaim 
before  them, '  This  is  the  punishment  of  busy-bodies  and  mis- 
chief makers.'  You  may  then  dismiss  them,  with  orders  never 
to  return  to  that  district  on  pain  of  death." 

The  judge  of  the  police  withdrew ;  and  the  grand  vizier 
approached  the  throne,  and  made  his  report  of  affairs.  Abon 
Hassan  heard  him  with  dignity  and  attention.  He  issued  out 
orders  without  embarrassment,  and  gave  judgment  in  several 
causes  with  great  ability.  The  caliph  saw  and  admired  this 
part  of  his  conduct,  which  raised  him  highly  in  his  esteem 
The  judge  of  the  police  returning,  presented  his  new  sovereigi 
»n  instrument,  signed  by  the  principal  inhabitants  of  the  iiv^ 


#20  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

lion,  attesting  the  punishment  having  been  infLcted  on  tht 
five  delinquents.  Abon  Hassan  read  over  the  names  of  thei 
witnesses,  (who  were  all  people  that  he  knew  very  well,)  witb 
great  satisfaction.  "  These  old  hypocrites,"  said  he  to  himst  If, 
"  who  were  ever  censuring  my  actions,  and  finding  fault  with 
my  entertaining  honest  people,  have  at  last  received  the  punish- 
ment they  deserved." 

When  the  time  of  audience^was  nearly  over,  the  new  caliph 
directed  the  vizier  to  take  a  thousand  pieces  of  gold,  and 
carry  them  to  the  mother  of  Abon  Hassan,  who  was  generally 
called  the  debauchee,  and  lived  in  the  same  district  where  the 
judge  of  the  police  had  been  sent  to.  Giafar  obeyed,  and,  on 
his  return,  Abon  Hassan  arose,  and  dismissing  the  audience, 
descended  the  throne,  and  was  conducted  by  Mesrour  into  an 
adjoining  apartment. 

He  was  much  delighted  on  entering  the  splendid  hall  to 
which  the  chief  of  the  eunuchs  led  him.  The  paintings  were 
exquisite;  and  there  appeared  everywhere  the  greatest  pro- 
fusion of  wealth;  seven  bands  of  music,  placed  in  different 
galleries,  struck  up  a  grand  concert  at  his  entrance.  In  the 
middle  of  the  room  there  was  a  table  pet  out  with  golden 
dishes  and  plates  containing  all  manner  of  rarities.  Seven 
young  and  beautiful  ladies,  richly  dressed,  stood  around  rtiia 
table,  each  ready  to  fan  the  supposed  caliph  while  at  dinner. 

Abon  Hassan  surveyed  all  these  things  with  the  utmost 
pleasure;  his  countenance  strongly  expressed  his  joy;  yet 
there  was  a  mixture  of  wonder  and  doubt  which  occasionally 
appeared  in  his  behavior.  "If  this  is  a  dream,"  said  he  to 
himself,  "  it  is  a  long  one.  But  surely,"  continued  he,  "  it  is 
not  a  dream :  I  can  see,  hear,  feel,  walk,  and  argue  reasonably. 
I  am  certainly  the  commander  of  the  faithful ;  who  else  could 
live  in  this  splendor?  Besides,  the  respect  I  receive,  and  the 
obedience  paid  to  my  commands  are  sufficient  proofs."  Ho 
then  sat  down  to  table ;  and  the  seven  ladies  standing  al  >oui 
tiim  began  to  fan  him.  He  looked  at  them  with  admiration 
vid  smilingly  told  them,  that  one  fan  was  enough  to  cool  him, 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  32? 

told  he  would  have  the  other  six  ladies  sit  down  to  tabk  witl 
him,  that  wherever  he  turned  his  eyes  he  might  behold  such 
lovely  objects. 

The  ladies  obeyed ;  but  Abon  Hassan  perceiving  Cat  out  of 
respect  they  did  not  eat,  helped  theM  himself,  and  urged  them 
in  the  most  obliging  terms.  When  they  had  dined,  he  asked 
their  names,  which  they  told  him  were  White  Neck,  GoraJ 
Lips,  Fair  Face,  Sunshine,  Heart's  Delight,  Sweet  Looks,  and 
Sugar  Cane.  To  every  lady  he  returned  handsome  compli- 
ments, wittily  adapted  to  her  name. 

After  dinner,  the  eunuchs  brought  perfumed  water  in  a 
golden  bowl ;  and  when  Abon  Hassan  had  washed,  Mesrour, 
who  never  left  him,  conducted  him  to  another  hall,  where  he 
was  received  by  seven  ladies  more  beautiful  than  the^  former 
Seven  other  bands  began  a  new  concert,  while  the  imaginary 
caliph  took  part  of  a  rich  dessert  of  sweetmeats,  and  the 
choicest  fruits.  This  over,  he  was  led  to  a  third  hall  more 
m~agnificent  than  the  other  two  ;  it  was  lighted  up  wilL  A  ^ro 
ftmon  of  wax  lights,  in  golden  branches  ;  and  he  was  received 
here  by  seven  other  ladies,  of  still  superior  beauty,  who  con- 
ducted him  to  a  table  set  out  with  large  silver  flagons  full  of 
the  choicest  wines,  and  crystal  glasses  placed  by  them. 

Till  this  time,  Abon  Hassan  had  drank  nothing  but  water, 
agreeable  to  the  custom  of  Bagdad,  where,  from  the  highest 
to  the  lowest,  they  never  drank  anything  strong  till  evening ;  it 
being  accounted  scandalous  in  the  highest  degree  for  any  one 
to  be  drunk  in  the  daytime.  When  he  placed  himself  at  the 
table,  he  desired  the  seven  ladies  to  sit  down  with  him ;  and 
having  asked  their  names,  which  were  Cluster  of  Pearls, 
Morning  Star,  Chain  of  Hearts,  Daylight,  Bright  Eyes,  Fine 
Shape,  and  Silver  Tongue :  he  called  upon  each  in  turn  to 
bring  him  a  glass  of  wine,  and  as  each  lady  presented  it,  he 
§aid  a  variety  of  witty  and  gallant  things  to  her. 

As  the  wine  began  to  elevate  the  supposed  caliph,  he  became 
amorous ;  which  Cluster  of  Pearls  percc  iving,  she  went  to  tn< 
beaufet,  and  putting  a  little  of  the  sleepy  powder  into  a  goblet, 


$22  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

Bhe  filled  it  with  wine ;  she  then  presented  it  in  a  most  bewitch 
ing  manner  to  Abon  Hassan,  requesting  him  to  drink  it  when 
she  had  sung  a  song  which  she  had  made  that  day.  Hassan 
consented ;  and  the  lady  sung  with  30  much  grace  and  spirit, 
that  he  resolved  to  prefer  her  to  her  companions.  He  received 
the  goblet  from  her  hand,  and  drank  ;  but  before  he  could  take 
it  from  his  mouth,  he  fell  asleep  in  the  arms  of  the  attendants. 
They  then  put  his  own  clothes  on  him ;  and  the  slave  wha 
brought  him  thither,  carried  him  back,  and  laid  him  on  his  own 
sofa. 

It  was  late  the  next  morning  before  the  powder  ceased  to 
operate.  But  at  length  the  sleeper  awakened,  and,  looking 
round  the  room,  was  surprised  to  find  himself  in  so  different  a 
situation.  He  called  aloud  for  Cluster  of  Pearls,  Morning 
Star,  Coral  Lips,  and  the  other  ladies,  as  he  could  recollect 
them.  His  mother  hearing  his  voice,  came  in  and  said,  "  Son. 
what  would  you  have?  who  are  those  you  are  calling  for?' 
Abon  Hassan,  raising  himself  up,  looked  haughtily  at  his 
mother,  and  said,  "  Good  woman !  who  is  it  you  call  your 
son  ?  "  "  You,  to  be  sure,"  replied  his  mother ;  "  are  you  not 
Abon  Hassan,  my  son  ?  Have  you  slept  till  you  have  forgot 
me,  and  yourself  too  ? "  "  I,  your  son  ! "  answered  Hassan ; 
"  you  are  mad !  I  am  not  Abon  Hassan,  but  the  commander  of 
the  faithful." 

His  mother  was  alarmed  at  these  words.  "  Silence,  my  dear 
son,  I  beseech  you,"  said  she  ;  "  do  you  not  know  that  '  walla 
have  ears  ? '  what  do  you  think  would  be  the  consequence,  if  you 
WRS  heard  to  utter  such  rash  words  to  any  body  else  ?  you  are 
surely  distracted."  While  his  mother  was  thus  remonstrating 
with  him,  Abon  Hassan  listened  to  her  attentively.  He  held 
down  his  head,  and  put  his  hands  before  his  eyes  like  one  ID 
contemplation.  At  last,  as  if  just  awakened,  he  said  to  his 
mother,  "Methinks  I  am  Abon  Hassan,  and  you  are  my 
mother."  Then  looking  round  the  room,  he  addh  1,  "  I  cer- 
tainly am  Abon  Hassan,  there  is  no  doubt  jf  it  I  canned 
fonttive  how  this  fancy  came  into  nay  head." 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  82S 

1  You  have  had  a  good  dream,"  replied  Lis  mother,  laughing 
*  but  I  ha-ve  some  real  good  news  for  you.  The  grand  vizici 
Giafar,  came  to  me  yesterday,  and  putting  a  purse  cf  a  thou 
?and  pieces  of  gold  into  my  hand,  bid  me  pray  for  the  com 
maeder  of  the  faithful,  who  made  me  that  present." 

«  Will  you  dare,  after  this,  old  lady,"  replied  Hassan,  in  a 
rage,  "  to  tell  me  I  am  your  son  !  I  sent  you  those  thousand 
|>ieces  of  gold,  by  my  grand  vizier.  Giafar,  who  obeyed  me  aa 
commander  of  the  faithful." 

His  mother  was  astonished  at  his  conversation,  but  fearing 
to  irritate  him  by  opposition,  she  answered  him  slightly  ;  and 
immediately,  with  intent  to  divert  his  ideas  from  a  subject 
which  seemed  to  bewilder  him,  she  began  to  tell  him  what  had 
befallen  the  imam  and  the  four  scheiks  the  preceding  day. 

Hassan  listened  with  much  attention,  and  when  she  had  fin 
ished  her  narrative  "  God  be  praised,"  said  he,  "  for  all  things  1 
for  I  have  no  doubt  but  that  I  am  the  commander  of  the  faith- 
ful, and  the  prophet's  vicar  on  earth.  Know,  old  woman,"  con- 
tinued he,  "  that  it  was  by  my  order  those  five  hypocrites  were 
punished.  I  was  not  asleep  when  I  gave  those  directions ;  and 
am  glad  to  hear  from  you,  that  the  judge  of  the  police  fulfilled 
his  duty."  ^ 

The  old  lady  was  in  an  agony  of  despair,  when  she  heard 
him  talk  in  so  absurd  a  mariner.  "  Heaven  preserve  you  from 
the  power  of  Satan,  my  dear  son ! "  replied  she ;  "  some  evil 
genius  surely  possesses  you.  Do  n't  you  see  you  are  in  youi 
own  room?  Recollect  yourself  seriously,  and  drive  awaj 
these  fancies  from  your  imagination."  At  these  words,  Hassan 
became  more  transported  with  fury :  he  leapt  from  the  sofa, 
seized  a  cane,  and  running  to  his  mother,  "  Cursed  sorceress," 
B«id  he,  '*  tell  me  instantly  by  what  means  you  have  conveyed 
KLO  from  my  palace  to  this  room."  His  mother,  looking  ten- 
derly at  him,  replied,  "  You  are  not,  surely,  so  abandoned  by 
€rod,  my  son,  as  to  strike  your  mother  ! "  Abon  Hassan  urged 
^  piirenzy,  became  unnatural.  He  caned  her  severely ;  ask- 
cg  her,  between  every  stroke,  if  she  woi  dd  yet  own  he  was 


if2fl  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

sommander  of  the  faithful?  to  which  she  cominued  co  K  p\y 
*  he  was  her  beloved  son." 

At  length,  as  he  ceased  not  to  beat  her,  the  old  lady  wai 
obliged  to  call  out  so  loud  for  help,  that  several  of  the  neigh- 
bors heard  her,  and  ran  to  her  assistance.  The  first  who  en- 
tered  the  room,  taking  the  cane  from  him,  said,  "  What  are  you 
doing,  Abon  Hassan?  have  you  no  fear  of  Go(J?  dare  you 
strike  your  affectionate  parent  ?  "  Hassan  looked  earnestly  on 
him  without  returning  any  answer ;  and  then,  staring  on  all 
that  followed  him,  said,  "  Who  is  that  Abon  Hassan  ?  do  you 
mean  to  call  me  by  that  name  ?  "  u  Who  should  we  call  so 
but  you,"  replied  his  neighbor ;  "  it  is  no  wonder  you  forget 
yourself,  when  you  insult  your  mother."  **  Begone  !  you  are 
all  impertinent ! "  answered  Hassan,  "  I  neither  know  her  nor 
you.  I  will  not  know  you,  I  am  not  Abon  Hassan ;  but  you 
shall  find  to  your  cost,  that  I  am  commander  of  the  faithful." 

At  this  discourse,  his  neighbors  concluded  he  was  mad  :  and 
while  some  laughed  at  him,  others  went  for  the  keeper  of  the 
hospital  for  lunatics.  Hassan  became  outrageous  at  the  sight 
of  him,  and  called  aloud  for  Giafar  and  Mesrour  to  come  to 
nis  assistance ;  but  the  keeper  ordered  him  to  be  undressed, 
and  beat  him  with  a  rope  till  he  lay  quiet ;  he  then  caused 
hand-cuffs  and  chains  to  be  fastened  on  him,  and  took  him  to 
ne  hospital. 

For  three  weeks  the  unfortunate  Hassan  received  daily  cor- 
t^ection  from  the  hand  of  his  severe  keeper,  who  never  failed 
to  remind  him  that  he  was  not  commander  of  the  faithful.  His 
mother  came  every  day  to  see  him ;  but  whenever  she  appeared 
in  his  sight,  he  reproached  and  execrated  her  as  the  cause  of 
all  his  sufferings.  At  length,  the  lively  ideas  of  what  had 
2>as3ed  during  the  time  he  was  addressed  as  caliph,  began  to 
fade  away  ;  and  the  miserable  situation  he  was  in,  made  hiia 
recollect  himself;  though  the  obedience  which  had  been  paid 
to  his  orders,  would  not  let  him  believe  he  had  been  dreaming ; 
yet  he  corsidered  that,  if  he  was  really  caliph,  his  officers  and 
Utendan/  s  would  never  have  abandoned  him  tr  so  much  igno 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  821 

mii-y  and  wretchedness.  While  his  mind  was  th.fc  employed, 
his  mother  came  to  see  him,  and  let  fall  a  torrent  of  tears  at 
beholding  him  manacled,  emaciated,  and  dejected.  On  her 
approach,  he  no  longer  appeared  furious.  On  the  contrary,  he 
saluted  her  as  his  mother,  disavowed  his  supposed  dignity,  and 
with  much  sorrow  entreated  her  forgiveness  of  the  outrage  he 
had  committed  against  her. 

His  mother  was  overjoyed  to  find  so  happy  a  change  in  hii  L 
She  talked  with  him  about  the  disorder  he  had  been  in  ;  acd 
added,  "  The  last  stranger  you  brought  home  with  you,  went 
away  in  the  morning  without  shutting  the  door.  I  am  per- 
suaded this  gave  some  demon  an  opportunity  to  enter,  and  put 
you  into  that  horrid  delusion."  "You  are  certainly  in  the 
right,  my  dear  mother,"  replied  Abon  Hassan ;  "  it  was  that 
very  night  I  had  the  fatal  dream  which  turned  my  brain,  and 
caused  those  excesses  which  cover  me  with  shame  and  confu 
sion  when  I  think  on  them.  I  charged  the  merchant  to  shut 
the  door  after  him,  which  now  I  find  he  did  not  do  ;  as  they 
of  Moussol  are  not  so  well  convinced  that  the  devil  is  the 
caus\j  of  troublesome  dreams  as  we  are  at  Bagdad.  But 
since  I  am  so  much  better,  get  me,  I  entreat  you,  out  of  this 
cursed  place."  His  mother  hastened  with  great  joy  to  the 
keeper,  and  declared  the  change  she  had  found  in  her  son ; 
and  he,  having  examined  his  patient,  congratulated  him  on  his 
recovery,  and  gave  him  his  liberty. 

When  Abon  Hassan  came  home,  he  staid  within  doors  for 
some  days  to  rest  and  refresh  himself  after  the  severe  disci- 
pline he  had  undergone.  But  when  he  had  recovered  his 
strength,  he  soon  became  weary  of  spending  his  evenin-gs 
alone.  He  determined,  therefore,  to  begin  his  former  way  of 
living,  which  was  to  provide  a  supper,  and  seek  a  guest  to 
Bhare  it  with  him. 

The  day  on  which  he  renewed  this  custom,  was  the  first  of 

the  month,  when  the  caliph  always  walked  in  disguise  about 

the  city.     Towards  evening,  Hassan  went  to  the  bridge,  bui 

had  scarce  sat  down  when  he  perceived  the  caliph  disguised  a* 

28 


&2b  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

before,  and  followed  by  the  same  slave.  As  he  was  fully  per 
suaded  that  all  his  sufferings  arose  from  the  negligence  of  this 
Moussol  merchant,  he  saw  him  with  great  indignation ;  and  tc 
avoid  speaking  to  him,  he  got  up  and  looked  over  the  parapet 
into  the  river. 

The  caliph  saw  and  recollected  his  former  host,  and  became 
curious  to  know  the  effect  of  his  frolic.  He  perceived  that 
Hassan  had  risen  in  anger,  and  wished  to  avoid  him.  He 
went,  therefore,  close  up  to  him,  and  said,  u  Oh !  brother  Has- 
§an,  is  it  you  ?  give  me  leave  to  embrace  you."  "  Not  I,  indeed,*' 
replied  Hassan,  roughly,  and  without  turning  his  head ;  I 
know  nothing  of  you,  nor  will  I  have  anything  to  do  with  you : 
go  about  your  business." 

The  caliph  endeavored  to  soothe  him,  saying,  "  You  cannot 
surely  have  forgot  the  evening  we  passed  so  pleasantly  at  your 
house,  a  little  while  ago.  I  then  tendered  you  my  best  ser- 
vices, and  now  repeat  the  offer,  and  shall  be  glad  to  repay 
your  hospitality  by  making  myself  useful  to  you.  Let  me  beg 
you  will  for  once  set  aside  your  usual  custom  of  not  receiving 
the  same  guest  the  second  time,  and  take  me  home  again  with 
you  this  evening." 

Abon  Hassan  refused  this  request  with  high  indignation, 
and  again  bid  the  supposed  merchant  begone.  But  the  caliph 
urged  him  so  vehemently,  and  seemed  so  desirous  of  knowing 
the  cause  of  his  host's  anger,  that  Hassan  at  last  suffered  him- 
self to  be  prevailed  on  to  receive  him  as  his  guest  the  second 
time.  He  took  care,  however,  to  exact  a  very  solemn  promise, 
that  he  would  shut  the  door  after  him,  when  he  went  out  ID 
the  morning. 

When  they  arrived  at  Abon  Hassan's  house,  he  related  to 
the  caliph  all  that  had  befallen  him.  "  But,"  continued  he, 
K  you  will  not  expect  to  hear,  that  it  is  entirely  owing  to  you 
that  these  things  happened.  I  desired  you  to  shut  the  door, 
which  you  neglected  to  do ;  and  some  devil  finding  it  open,  put 
this  dream  in  my  head ;  which,  though  it  was  very  agreeable 
while  it  lasted,  was  the  cause  of  all  these  misfortunes.  You 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  82* 

Are  in  part  answerable  for  all  the  extra vagatjcies  1  ran  into 
and  chiefly  for  the  horrid  and  detestable  crime  I  was  guilty  oi 
•n  lifting  up  my  hand  against  my  mother." 

Ihe  caliph  hearing  Abon  Hassan  thus  gravely  laying  to  his 
charge  so  many  evils,  burst  into  laughter,  which  exceedingly 
affronted  his  host.  "  Perhaps  you  will  find  something  very 
diverting  in  this  also,"  said  he,  and  at  the  same  time  bared  his 
back  and  shoulders,  and  showed  the  wales  and  livid  marks 
which  remained  from  the  chastisement  he  had  undergone  in 
the  hospital.  The  caliph,  on  beholding  this  piteous  sight, 
became  really  sorry  that  Hassan  had  suffered  so  much.  He 
embraced  and  condoled  with  him.  After  which  he  said,  "  Le\ 
us  forget  as  well  as  we  can,  all  that  is  disagreeable,  and  dedi- 
cate this  evening  to  mirth.  To-morrow  I  will  endeavor  to 
repay  your  sufferings  to  your  satisfaction." 

Abon  Hassan  had  conceived  an  esteem  for  his  guest.  He 
Buffered  his  anger  to  be  overcome  by  these  entreaties,  and 
sitting  down  with  him,  they  passed  the  evening  together  in 
great  jollity.  When  it  grew  late,  the  caliph  conveyed  a  little 
of  the  same  powder  into  the  cup  of  his  host,  which  had  its 
usual  effect ;  and  the  slave  carried  Hassan  a  second  time  to 
the  palace. 

The  caliph  caused  him  to  be  again  habited  in  the  imperial 
robes,  and  laid  on  a  sofa  in  the  hall  where  he  had  before 
fallen  asleep.  In  the  morning,  Mesrour,  with  the  other  attend- 
ants, took  their  places ;  the  effect  of  the  powder  was  dissipated 
as  before,  and,  as  Abon  Hassan  awakened,  the  music  struck 
up  a  delightful  concert. 

Abon  Hassan  was  astonished  to  hear  the  charming  harmony. 
He  looked  around  him,  and  remembered  the  hall ;  he  even 
thought  he  recollected  the  persons  of  the  ladies.  "  Alas !  said 
he  aloud,  I  &m  fallen  into  the  same  fatal  dream  that  happened 
to  me  a  month  ago ;  and  must  expect  again  the  discipline  of 
the  mad-house.  He  was  a  wicked  man  whom  I  entertained 
last  night ;  he  is  the  cause  of  this  illusion,  and  of  all  the  niise* 
lies  I  must  undergo  The  base  wretch  promised  to  shut  tl* 


ARABIAN   NiviHTS 

floor  after  him,  and  did  not  do  it,  and  the  devil  1  is  com j  in, 
and  filled  my  head  with  this  cursed  dream  again.  Mayest 
thou  be  confounded,  Satan,  and  crushed  under  some  mountain.* 

Abon  Hassan  continued  some  time  thoughtful ;  when  shut- 
ting his  eyes  and  stretching  himself  on  the  sofa,  "  I  '11  go  to 
sleep,"  said  he,  "  till  Satan  leaves  me."  "  On  which  one  of 
the  ladies  approaching  him,  said,  "  Commander  of  the  faithful, 
I  beg  your  majesty  will  permit  me  tell  you,  that  day  appears, 
and  it  is  time  to  rise."  "  Begone,  Satan ! "  replied  Abon 
Hassan,  raising  his  voice.  Then  looking  on  the  lady,  he  said, 
u  Is  it  me  you  call  commander  of  the  faithful  ?  "  "  To  whom,*1 
replied  the  lady,  u  should  I  give  that  title  but  to  your  majesty, 
who  is  the  sovereign  of  the  world,  and  of  Mussulmen  ?  But 
to  convince  you  perfectly,  let  me  remind  you  of  what  passed 
yesterday."  She  then  told  him  of  the  several  matters  which 
occurred  in  the  council ;  of  his  liberality  to  Abon  Hassan's 
mother;  and  of  the  punishment  of  the  imam  and  his  com- 
panions. "  Your  majesty,  then,"  continued  she,  "  dined  in  the 
three  halls  as  usual ;  and  in  this  you  did  us  the  honor  to  make 
us  sit  down  with  you,  to  hear  our  songs,  and  receive  wine 
from  our  hands,  till  you  fell  asleep,  and  never  awakened  till 
now." 

The  confidence  with  which  the  lady  assured  Hassan  of  these 
things,  and  his  own  recollection  of  the  circumstances,  threw 
him  into  the  utmost  perplexity.  "All  she  tells  me  is  certainly 
true,"  said  he  aloud ;  "  for  I  remember  every  particular  of  it. 
Am  I,  indeed,  caliph  ?  Do  I  dream  now,  or  was  I  in  a  dream 
when  I  fancied  myself  in  a  mad-house?"  At  length  recol- 
lecting that  his  shoulders  still  retained  a  melancholy  proof  of 
the  treatment  he  had  received,  he  once  more  uncovered  them, 
and  asked  his  attendants  how  they  durst  suffer  such  disgrace- 
.\il  severity  to  be  offered  to  the  caliph  while  he  slept.  The 
(ady  was  confounded ;  and  not  knowing  he  /f  to  answer  so 
trying  a  question,  she  made  a  signal  for  tht:  music  to  renew 
the  concert,  while  she  and  her  companions  danced  round  th* 
HDagmarv  caliph.  Abon  Hassan  beheld  them  for  some  tiro* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  329 

a  mixture  of  delight  and  anxiety  ;  but  as  they  continued 
to  dance,  he  became  transported,  and  leaping  up,  joined  them 
in  their  amusement,  committing  numberless  pleasant  extra va 
gancies ;  till  the  caliph,  who  had  from  his  closet  been  a  spec- 
tator of  all  that  passed,  and  had  laughed  till  he  was  quite 
exhausted,  called  out,  "  Abon  Hassan,  Abon  Hassan,  you  will 
make  me  die  with  laughter." 

The  instant  the  caliph's  voice  was  heard,  the  music  ceased, 
acd  every  one  was  silent.  The  monarch  came  forward,  laughr 
ing.  Abon  Hassan  recollected  him,  notwithstanding  his  royal 
robes ;  and  joining  in  the  joke,  without  being  in  the  least 
dashed  at  the  presence  of  his  sovereign,  he  cried  out,  "  Ha  ' 
ha !  you  are  a  merchant  of  Moussol,  and  complain  I  would 
kill  you ;  you  who  have  been  the  occasion  of  rny  using  iny 
mother  so  ill;  it  was  you  who  punished  the  imam  and  the 
four  scheiks :  I  wash  my  hands  of  it.  In  short,  you  ought  to 
answer  for  all  my  irregularities." 

The  caliph  acknowledged  the  truth  of  Abon  Hassan's  re- 
marks ;  and  at  his  request,  told  him  the  contrivance  he  had 
used  to  convey  him  thus  about.  He  then  bid  Hassan  ask 
boldly  for  any  favor  he  wished,  to  make  him  amends  for  the 
severities  he  had  undergone. 

u  Commander  of  the  faithful,"  replied  Abon  Hassan,  "  how 
great  soever  my  distress  was,  I  have  quite  forgot  it,  now  that 
I  know  my  sovereign  received  amusement  from  those  circum- 
stances which  occasioned  it,  I  doubt  not  your  majesty's  bounty ; 
but  shall  only  ask  that  I  may  be  allowed  to  approach  your 
royal  person,  and  have  the  happiness  all  my  life  of  admiring 
your  grandeur ! "  The  modesty  of  this  request  charmed  the 
caliph,  who  had  before  a  great  esteem  for  Hassan ;  he  granted 
his  desire  in  the  most  ample  manner,  assured  him  of  his  pro- 
tection, and  received  him  into  his  familiar  friendship. 

Abon  Hassan  was  lively  and  pleasant ;  he  continually  pro- 
moted the  amusement  of  his  royal  master,  so  that  he  became 
his  constant  companion  during  those  hours  which  were  ncfc 
Isvoted  to  business.  Tie  caliph  often  carried  him  to  tt* 

28* 


£30  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

Apartment  of  his  spouse,.  Zobeide,  who  had  heard  his  skry 
with  much  pleasure.  This  princess  had  a  favorite  slave,  called 
Nouzhatoul-aouadat.  Hassan  had  not  been  often  admitted  ta 
the  presence  of  Zobeide,  before  she  observed  that  his  eyes 
were  often  fixed  on  this  young  lady ;  who,  on  her  part,  be- 
trayed evident  proofs  of  partiality  for  him. 

Zobeide  was  no  sooner  convinced  that  their  attachment  was 
mutual,  than  she  proposed  to  the  caliph  to  give  her  slave  to 
Abon  Hassan.  The  prince  consenting,  the  marriage  was  sol- 
emnized in  the  palace,  with  great  rejoicings.  The  bride  and 
bridegroom  received  very  considerable  presents  from  Zobeide 
and  the  caliph,  and  Abon  Hassan  conducted  his  spouse  with 
great  joy  to  the  apartments  allotted  him  in  the  palace. 

Abon  Hassan  and  his  spouse  lived  together  in  perfect  union. 
Nouzhatoul-aouadat  was  endued  with  all  the  qualifications  capa- 
ble of  gaining  her  husband's  love  and  esteem  ;  and  he  omitted 
nothing  that  could  render  himself  acceptable  to  her.  He  fur- 
nished his  table  with  the  choicest  dainties  and  most  exquisite 
wines;  he  hired  the  best  musicians  to  entertain  her;  in  a 
word,  their  time  passed  in  a  continual  round  of  pleasure. 

But  before  the  first  year  of  their  marriage  was  expired,  their 
steward  made  so  large  a  demand  on  his  master,  as  entirely 
exhausted  his  purse ;  and  they  found  themselves  all  at  once 
exceedingly  embarrassed.  Abon  Hassan  durst  not  apply  to 
the  caliph  for  assistance,  having  in  so  short  a  time  lavished 
away  a  considerable  treasure :  nor  could  he  have  recourse  to 
his  own  fortune ;  for  when  the  caliph  received  him  into  his 
household,  he  made  over  the  whole  of  his  patrimony  to  his 
mother ;  and  he  resolved  on  no  account  to  lessen  her  income, 
On  the  other  hand,  Nouzhatoul-aouadat  considered  Zobeide's 
generosity  to  her  on  her  nuptials,  as  more  than  a  sufficien 
recompense  for  her  services,  and  thought  that  she  ought  not  tc 
apply  to  her  for  more. 

On  the  departure  of  the  steward,  they  sat  a  long  time  silent 
*ach  revolving  these  disagreeable  ideas.  At  length  Abon  Has- 
san said  to  his  wife,  "  1  see  you  are  as  much  distressed  as  7 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  83  i 

wn  on  this  occasion;  but  I  think  I  have  Cimtriv  id  a  triik  if 
you  will  assist  me,  which,  while  it  discovers  our  necessities  tc 
the  caliph  and  Zobeide,  will  at  the  same  time  divert  them 

To  this  purpose,  you  and  I  must  both  die  ."     "Not  I, 

indeed,"  interrupted  his  wife,  who  had  before  listened  tc  him 
with  great  attention ;  "  if  you  have  nothing  else  to  propose 
you  may  do  that  by  yourself  if  you  choose  it." 

"  You  do  not  suppose,  surely,"  replied  Hassan,  hastily,  "  thai 
I  mean  really  to  die.  I  propose  only  tnat  I  should  feign  my- 
self dead,  and  you  should  go  in  tears  to  Zobeide,  and  by 
expressing  great  sorrow,  move  her  pity.  On  your  return,  I 
will  put  the  same  cheat  on  the  caliph,  and,  besides  the  USUPJ 
presents  we  shall  each  receive  on  this  occasion,  I  flatter  my 
self  the  explanation  will  be  very  beneficial  to  us." 

Nouzhatoul-aouadat  now  entered  into  the  husband's  scheme 
with  great  readiness.  She  spread  a  sheet  on  the  carpet  in  th* 
middle  of  the  room,  on  which  Hassan  laid  himself  along,  with 
his  feet  towards  Mecca;  he  crossed  his  arms*  and  his  wife 
wrapped  him  up,  and  put  a  piece  of  fine  muslin  and  his  turban 
on  his  face.  She  then  disordered  her  dress,  and  with  dismal 
cries  and  lamentations,  ran  to  Zobeide's  apartments.  Having 
obtained  admission  to  the  princess,  she  redoubled  her  criea. 
tore  her  hair,  and  expressed  every  appearance  of  the  most 
extravagant  affliction ;  to  her  mistress's  eager  inquiries  into 
the  cause  of  this  sorrow,  she  was  a  long  time  silent,  as  if 
unable  to  speak ;  but  at  last  seeming  to  suppress  her  sighs, 
she  said,  "  May  heaven  prolong  youi  days,  most  respectable 
princess.  Abon  Hassan !  poor  Abon  Hassan,  whom  you  hon- 
ored with  your  esteem,  and  gave  me  for  a  husband,  is  no 
more." 

Zobeide  was  much  afflicted  at  this  news.  "  Is  Abon  Hassan 
dead  ?  "  exclaimed  she,  "  that  agreeable  pleasant  man  !  alas, 
he  deserved  a  longer  life !  "  Saying  this,  she  shed  tears ;  and 
nil  her  attendants,  to  whom  Abon  Hassan's  good  humor  had 
much  endeared  him,  joined  in  bewailing  his  loss.  Zobeide 
their,  presented  the  supposed  widow  with  a  piece  of 


332  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

ft&d  an  hundred  pieces  of  gold.  °  Go,"  said  she,  "  bury  tin 
corpse  of  thy  husband  in  that  brocade ;  and  moderate  the 
transports  of  thy  affliction.  I  will  take  care  of  thee." 

Nouzhatoul-aouadat  having  returned  suitable  thanks  to  the 
princess,  withdrew  ;  and  going  with  great  joy  to  her  husband, 
she  said,  "  Rise,  and  see  the  fruits  of  your  project.  New  let 
me  act  the  dead  part,  and  see  if  you  manage  the  caliph  a?  well 
as  I  have  done  Zobeide." 

Abon  Hassan  wrapped  up  his  wife  as  she  had  done  him, 
and  with  his  turban  loosened,  and  put  awry  on  his  head,  and 
like  a  man  in  the  deepest  sorrow,  ran  to  the  caliph,  and 
announced  the  death  of  his  beloved  Nouzhatoul-aouadat.  That 
prince  was  as  liberal  to  the  false  widower,  as  his  princess  had 
been  to  her  slave,  and  Abon  Hassan  left  his  patron  with  a 
rejoicing  heart,  though  his  face  expressed  very  different  asso- 
ciations. 

The  caliph  was  impatient  to  condole  with  Zobeide  on  the 
death  of  her  slave.  He  went  immediately  with  Mesrour  to 
her  apartments ;  where  he  found  her  drowned  in  tears.  He 
seated  himself  by  her,  and  in  the  most  tender  manner  used 
every  argument  in  his  power  to  console  her.  The  princess, 
though  highly  gratified  at  this  proof  of  the»caliph's  tenderness, 
was  amazed  to  hear  him  lament  the  death  of  Nouzhatoul- 
aouadat.  She  thanked  him  for  his  affectionate  attention  to 
her,  but  added,  "  Your  majesty  has  been  misinformed.  It  ia 
not  the  death  of  my  slave  which  afflicts  me.  She  was  here 
just  now,  in  good  health,  though  in  much  distress.  These 
tears  are  shed  for  Abon  Hassan  ;  whose  untimely  dissolution 
grieves  me  much,  and  cannot,  I  suppose,  be  indifferent  to  your 
majesty." 

The  caliph  who  had  just  parted  with  Abon  Hassan,  assured 
her  that  he  was  alive  and  well.  "  'T  is  his  wife,"  continued  he, 
"  who  is  dead :  it  is  only  a  few  minutes  since  he  left  me  over- 
whelmed with  affliction  for  the  loss." 

Zoboide  became  a  good  deal  piqued  at  this  answer  of  the 
caliph.  She  thought  he  bantered  her.  She  affirmed  with 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  £88 

h  iieat  that  it  was  Abon  Hassan  who  was  dea  1 ;  and  ap. 
pealed  to  her  nurse  and  other  attendants  to  confirm  what  sh€ 
asserted.  The  caliph  was  as  confident  he  was  alive,  and  hia 
wife  was  dead.  To  close  the  dispute,  the  monarch  proposed 
to  wager  his  garden  of  pleasures  against  the  princess's  palace 
of  paintings.  Zobeide  agreed :  and  Mesrour  was  despatched 
to  Abon  Hassan's  apartment,  charged  both  by  the  caliph  and 
his  lady  to  return  with  a  strict  account. 

Abon  Hassan  had  foreseen  this  dispute.  When  he  perceived 
Mesrour  approaching,  he  prepared  his  wife  to  act  the  dead  \ 
part  again.  He  spread  the  piece  of  brocade  over  her,  and 
seated  himself  at  the  head  of  the  pretended  corpse,  in  great 
apparent  sorrow.  In  this  situation  the  eunuch  found  him. 
Mesrour  was  affected  at  the  dismal  sight.  He  seated  himself 
on  the  other  side  of  the  body,  and  began  to  offer  consolation  to 
Abon  Hassan.  He  lifted  up  the  pall  a  little  at  the  head,  and 
.ooking  under  it,  let  it  fall  again,  and  said,  with  a  deep  sigh, 
"  there  is  no  other  God  but  God :  we  must  all  submit  to  his 
will,  and  return  to  him."  Then  turning  to  Abon  Hassan,  who 
was  sighing  and  groaning  most  pitifully,  he  besought  him  not 
to  indulge  an  unavailing  sorrow,  and  having  conversed  with 
him  a  little  time,  he  arose  and  took  his  leave. 

Mesrour  returned  to  Zobeide's  apartment,  and  on  appearing 
before  his  master,  he  clapped  his  hands,  laughing,  like  one 
who  had  something  very  agreeable  to  tell ;  but  the  caliph  and 
the  princess  had  disputed  till  they  were  both  out  of  humor. 
The  impatient  prince  cried  out,  "  Vile  slave,  is  this  a  time  to 
laugh  ?  Tell  me  which  is  dead,  the  wife  or  the  husband." 

"  Commander  of  the  faithful,"  replied  Mesrour,  seriously, 
« it  is  Nouzhatoul-aouadat  who  is  dead."  The  caliph  imme- 
liately  turning  to  Zobeide,  claimed  the  palace  of  paintings. 
The  princess  pettishly  replied,  "  I  see  your  majesty  has  con- 
trived with  Mesrour  to  chagrin  me.  I  myself  conversed  with 
my  slave,  who  told  me  her  husband  was  dead ;  my  attendants 
til  saw  and  heard  her.  This  despicable  slave  has  brought  a 
false  account,  I  beg  I  may  send  a  person  I  can  trust  to  clear 
ap  this  matter." 


334  AKABIAN    NIGHTS 

"I  know  not,"  replied  the  caliph,  "  who  was  the  autboi  o! 
that  saying,  that  women  sometimes  lose  their  wits ;  but  I  an? 
sure  you  give  a  proof  that  he  was  not  mistaken.  You  maj 
Bend  whom  you  please ;  but  I  once  more  assure  you  that  my 
own  eyes  and  ears  are  witnesses  that  Mesrour  has  told  th* 
fruth." 

Zobeide  despatched  her  nurse  to  Abon  Hassan's  apartment, 
and  not  choosing  to  dispute  with  the  caliph,  she  contented 
herself  with  reproaching  the  eunuch.  The  monarch  enjoyed 
her  anger ;  but  poor  Mesrour  was  much  mortified.  He  com- 
forted himself,  however,  with  the  hope  that  the  return  of  the 
nurse  would  set  all  to  rights  again. 

Waen  Abon  Hassan  had  released  his  wife  from  her  bands, 
after  the  departure  of  Mesrour,  he  said  to  her,  "  Though  the 
eunuch  did  not  mention  his  master,  I  am  persuaded  that  this 
visit  was  made  by  his  direction.  The  caliph  and  the  princess 
I  doubt  not  are  debating  which  of  us  is  dead ;  and  as  Zobeide 
will  not  believe  Mesrour,  we  may  expect  further  inquiries." 
They  sat  down,  therefore,  on  a  sofa  opposite  the  window,  and 
watched  who  drew  near. 

When  they  saw  the  nurse  coming,  Hassan  again  appeared 
as  the  dead  body.  Nouzhatoul-aouadat  placed  herself  at  his 
head,  her  hair  dishevelled,  her  dress  disordered,  and  herself 
apparently  in  the  utmost  distress.  The  nurse  on  entering  the 
apartment  endeavored  to  console  her ;  and  when  she  appeared 
a  little  composed,  expressed  her  surprise  at  finding  everything 
the  reverse  of  what  the  eunuch  had  reported.  "  That  black- 
faced  Mesrour,"  said  she,  "  deserves  to  be  impaled,  for  having 
made  so  great  a  difference  between  our  good  mistress  and  the 
commander  of  the  faithful.  He  has  had  the  inconceivable  im- 
pudence to  assert,  before  the  princess's  face,  that  you,  daughter, 
are  dead,  and  Abon  Hassan  alive." 

Tb  3  nurse  having  comforted  the  supposed  widow,  hastened 
back  to  Zobjide,  and  related  what  she  had  seen.  Mesrour 
was  equally  vexed  and  disappointed  at  a  report  sc  different 
from  what  he  expected.  A  violent  altercailx>r.  took  ulace  b^ 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  33* 

rween  him  and  the  nurse ;  which  the  princess  resented  so  much, 
that  she  burst  into  tears,  and  demanded  justice  of  the  caliph 
against  the  audacious  and  insolent  eunuch. 

But  the  monarch  who  had  heard  their  different  accounts, 
considered  that  Zobeide  herself  had  been  positive  on  the  one 
hand,  and  He  on  the  other.  He  began,  therefore,  to  think 
there  was  something  more  in  the  affair  than  he  could  compre- 
nend.  Having  pacified  Zobeide,  he  proposed  that  they  should 
go  together  to  Abon  Hassan's  apartment,  and  let  their  own 
eyes  determine  the  controversy. 

They  set  forward  accordingly,  followed  by  all  their  retinue 
Abon  Hassan,  seeing  the  cavalcade  approach,  wrapped  hit 
wife  up  as  before,  and  lying  down  by  her,  contrived  to  place 
the  brocade  and  turban  upon  himself,  so  that  on  the  entrance 
of  the  royal  visitors  they  both  appeared  as  laid  out. 

When  the  caliph  and  the  princess  entered  the  room,  they 
were  exceedingly  shocked  at  the  dismal  sight.  After  some  time, 
Zobeide  exclaimed  with  a  sigh,  "  Alas !  they  are  both  dead ! 
it  is  dangerous  jesting  on  such  awful  subjects,"  "  You  jocular- 
ly told  me,"  said  she  to  the  caliph,  "  that  my  slave  was  dead, 
and  now  I  find  she  is  really  so.  Grief  for  the  loss  of  hei 
husband  has  certainly  killed  her." 

The  caliph  strenuously  asserted  that  Abon  Hassan  had  been 
unable  to  support  life  after  the  death  of  Nouzhatoul-aouadat. 
The  nurse  and  Mesrour  renewed  their  altercation ;  and  all 
parties  found  themselves  as  far  from  certainty  as  ever.  In 
the  conversation  the  caliph  vowed  he  would  give  a  thousand 
pieces  ol  gold  to  him  who  could  prove  which  of  the  two  died 
first.  Instantly  a  hand  was  held  out,  and  a  voice  from  under 
Abon  Hassan's  pall  was  heard  to  say,  "I  died  first,  com- 
mand 3r  of  the  faithful ;  give  me  the  thousand  pieces  of  gold.* 
At  the  same  time  Abon  Hassan  threw  off  the  brocade,  and 
prostrated  himself  at  the  feet  of  the  caliph,  as  did  his  wife  at 
those  of  the  princess. 

Abon  Hassan  related  the  necessity  which  gave  rise  to  this 
device,  and  finish*  d  his  narrative  by  very  gravely  demanding 


tf36  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

the  thousand  pieces  of  gold.  Zobeide,  at  first,  was  veiy  serious 
not  bekig  well  pleased  to  have  been  so  much  afflicted ;  but  the 
caliph  laughing  very  heartily  at  the  trick,  she  at  length  joined 
in  his  good  humor;  and  by  their  mutual  liberality  they  furnished 
Abon  Hassan  and  Nouzhatoul-aouadat  with  a  sufficient  income 
to  enjoy  their  favorite  pleasures. 

Ttte  Adventures  of  the  Caliph  Haroun  Alraschia. 

OKR  of  those  evenings  in  which  the  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid 
was  pursuing  his  usual  custom  of  walking  in  disguise  about 
his  metropolis,  to  see  that  good  order  was  everywhere  observed, 
he  took  notice  of  a  blind  beggar,  whose  appearance  excited  his 
compassion.  He  gave  him  a  small  piece  of  money,  which  the 
beggar  received  with  thankfulness ;  but  at  the  same  time  caught 
hold  of  his  clothes,  and  said,  u  Charitable  person,  whosoever 
you  are,  that  God  hath  inspired  with  benevolence,  I  entreat 
you  to  give  me  a  smart  blow  also.  Alas !  I  have  deserved  a 
greater  punishment." 

The  caliph  was  surprised  at  this  request,  which  he  refused 
to  comply  with.  "  Then,"  replied  the  beggar,  "  I  must  desire 
you  to  take  back  your  alms,  for  I  have  made  a  solemn  vow 
never  to  receive  the  one  without  the  other.  If  you  knew  the 
reason,  you  would  allow  the  penance  is  not  equal  to  my  of- 
fences." The  caliph  not  choosing  to  be  detained,  gave  him  a 
Blight  blow ;  after  which  the  blind  man  let  him  go,  and  thanked 
him  and  blessed  him. 

The  extreme  severity  with  which  a  young  man  chastised  a 
very  beautiful  mare,  next  engaged  the  caliph's  attention,  with 
the  more  reason,  as  he  learnt  that  for  many  days  past  the  man 
had  exercised  his  beast  every  day  with  the  same  severity. 
Giafar  was  directed  by  his  master  to  order  this  man  and  the 
oeggar  to  attend  the  caliph  at  the  divan  next  day. 

In  his  further  progress,  the  caliph  took  notice  of  a  very 
handsome  house,  newly  built.  He  inquired  who  was  the  owner 
*nd  was  informed  that  he  was  called  Cogia  Hassan  Alhabbal 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  Slfl 

^ropemaker) ;  that  very  lately  he  had  been  so  exceedingly 
poor,  that  he  could  hardly  supply  his  fkmily  with  necessaries, 
but  all  at  once  he  had  become  very  rich,  and  defrayed  honor- 
ably the  expense  he  now  lived  at.  The  caliph  ordered  Cogia 
Hassan  to  be  summoned  before  him  with  the  others. 

Next  day  they  all  attended.  The  caliph  addressed  himself 
first  to  the  beggar,  and  demanded  the  reason  of  his  extraor- 
dinary conduct.  The  blind  man,  having  paid  his  respects  to 
the  caliph  in  the  usual  manner,  related  his  story  as  follows. 

The  Story  of  the  Mind  Man,  Baba  Abdattah. 

Commander  of  the  faithful,  I  am  ready  to  obey  you,  though 
1  know  that  in  relating  the  cause  of  my  imposing  this  penance 
apon  myself,  I  must  discover  a  very  heinous  crime  to  your 
majesty.  Whatever  further  punishment  you  may  order  to  be 
inflicted  on  me,  I  shall  submit  to  it  without  murmuring. 

I  am  called  Baba  Abdallah,  and  was  born  at  Bagdad.  Hav- 
ing but  little  fortune  to  begin  the  world  with,  I  early  learnt 
the  strictest  economy,  which  very  soon  became  avarice.  By 
a  close  attention  to  its  dictates,  I  became  possessed  of  four- 
score camels,  which  I  used  to  let  to  the  merchants,  and  drive 
them  myself  to  whatever  place  they  were  hired  for ;  by  which 
diligence  I  was  obtaining,  very  fast,  a  handsome  competence. 
In  the  midst  of  this  good  fortune,  as  I  was  returning  one  day 
from  Balsora,  with  my  camels  unloaded,  a  dervise  joined  me 
on  the  road.  We  fell  into  discourse,  and  presently  sitting 
down,  each  produced  his  provisions,  and  we  ate  together.  After 
our  repast,  the  dervise  told  me  that  he  knew  of  a  treasure 
near  at  hand  so  great,  that  if  all  my  beasts  were  laden  with 
gold  and  jewels,  it  would  not  be  missed  from  the  heap. 

I  wa#  delighted  at  this  news,  and  entreated  the  dervibe  to 
«how  me  where  it  was,  and  let  me  load  my  camels  with  it . 
preposterously  offering  to  give  him  one  of  them.  The  derviaa 
checked  my  avarice  with  great  good  humor.  "  Will  you  not 
be  content,7'  said  he,  "  if  I  give  you  as  much  treasure  as  will 

29 


338  A.RABIAN    NIGHT'S 

load  forty  of  your  camels,  to  give  me  the  other  forty  and  lei 
me  load  them  on  my  own  account.  Consider,  though  you  giv€ 
me  forty  01  your  carriers,  you  will  receive  by  my  means  aa 
much  wealth  as  would  purchase  many  thousands  of  them. 

There  was  much  truth  and  justice  in  this  remark,  yet  J 
could  not  without  reluctance  think  of  agreeing  to  his  request, 
The  dervise  would  in  that  case  be  as  rich  a  man  as  myself: 
my  desire  of  riches  also  was  become  so  violent,  that  I  thought 
't  was  a  s^reat  deal  to  spare  him  one,  though  I  retained  seven- 
ty nine. 

But  there  was  no  time  to  hesitate ;  if  I  did  not  comply,  I 
must  give  up  all  hopes  of  possessing  immense  wealth.  I  con- 
sented, therefore,  with  seeming  thankfulness,  and  we  travelled 
till  we  came  to  a  spacious  valley,  formed  by  two  mountains. 
When  we  had  advanced  some  way,  the  dervise  made  a  fire, 
j  and  casting  a  perfume  into  it,  he  said  some  words  I  did  not 
understand ;  a  thick  cloud  arose,  and,  when  it  dispersed,  we 
found  one  of  the  mountains  opened,  and  discovered  a  prodigious 
cavern,  full  of  all  sorts  of  riches. 

I  made  the  camels  kneel  down  as  usual  to  receive  their 
load,  and  then  flew  like  a  hungry  vulture  to  my  prey.  The 
sacks  were  large,  and  I  would  gladly  have  filled  them  all,  but 
I  was  obliged  to  proportion  my  burden  to  tfie  strength  of  my 
beasts.  When  we  had  laden  them  with  gold  and  jewels,  1. 
observed  the  dervise  go  to  a  vessel,  and  take  out  a  little  box, 
which  he  put  in  his  bosom ;  but  first  showed  me  that  it  con- 
tained only  a  kind  of  pomatum. 

The  dervise  having  closed  the  mountain,  we  each  of  us 
took  charge  of  our  forty  camels,  and  left  the  valley.  We 
travelled  together  till  we  came  to  the  great  road,  where  we 
were  to  part ;  the  dervise  going  to  Balsora,  and  I  to  Bagdad 
Here  I  poured  forth  my  acknowledgments  in  the  fullest  man- 
ner, for  the  riches  he  had  given  me,  and  we  bade  each  other 
farewell. 

I  had  not  gone  many  paces  before  tne  vilest  ingratitude 
took  possession  of  me.  I  not  only  forgot  my  obligations  to  thf 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  339 

Jervi  *e,  but  determined  to  deprive  him  of  hit*  share  of  the 
ireasure  we  had  brought  from  the  valley.  Having  formed 
this  infamous  resolution,  I  soon  found  out  a  specious  reason  tc 
hide  from  my  heart  its  own  baseness.  "  Is  not  the  dervise/ 
said  I,  "  master  of  this  immense  treasure  ?  cannot  he  go  to  i : 
when  he  pleases  ?  what  injury  then  shall  I  do  him." 

I  stopped  my  camels  and  went  up  to  him,  saying,  "  Brother, 
it  occurs  to  me  that  you  who  are  ;not  used  to  the  management 
of  these  beasts,  will  never  be  able  to  conduct  forty  of  them  to 
Balsora.  You  had  better  give  up  ten  of  them  to  me." 

"  I  believe  you  are  right,"  replied  the  dervise ;  u  I  appre- 
hend the  difficulty  you  mention.  Take  any  ten  you  please 
and  add  to  your  own." 

Finding  my  benefactor  so  easily  persuaded,  I  proceeded  with 
moderation.  "You  will  soon  find,"  said  I,  "that  you  have 
done  wisely  in  lessening  the  number  of  your  camels,  indeed 
the  regard  I  have  for  your  safety  makes  me  wish  you  would 
part  with  ten  more.  I  can  manage  an  hundred  as  well  as 
one ;  but  you  will  find  twenty  too  many." 

u  If  you  think  so,  brother/'  replied  the  dervise,  "  take  other 
ten."  I  did  so,  and  was  owner  of  sixty  camels,  loaded  with 
jewels  and  gold.  This  immense  wealth,  instead  of  satisfying 
my  desires,  only  made  me  more  eager  for  the  remaining  twenty. 
"  You,  brother,"  said  I,  "  are  a  good  dervise,  unattached  to  the 
world,  and  intent  only  on  serving  God.  You  will  find  all  this 
treasure  a  snare  to  you.  Be  content  then  with  ten  camels, 
and  let  me  out  of  friendship  to  you  drive  away  the  remainder." 

The  dervise  complied  with  this  unreasonable  request  also, 
without  murmuring.  I  then  embraced  him,  oppressed  him 
with  my  too  abundant  thanks,  with  vows  of  everlasting  grati 
tude  and  love ;  and  I  finished  in  beseeching  him  to  crown  my 
j°y?  by  giving  me  the  other  ten  also.  "  Take  them,  brother/ 
replied  the  dervise,  "  use  them  properly.  "  Remember,  also* 
that  God  can  take  away  riches  as  well  as  bestow  th*em." 

Though  I  was  much  pleased  to  have  acquired  so  easily  thf 
^  which   I  had  resolved  to  obtain  by  violence,  if 


540  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

aary,  my  desires  were  now  become  unboui.ded.     Recollecting 
the  box  of  pomatum,  which  the  dervise  had  taken  out  of  ihe 
treasury,  it  occurred  to  me  that  possibly  that  box  might  be  01 
more  value  than  all  the  treasure  I  had  obtained  from  him 
hence  J  accounted  for  his  so  readily  giving  up  his  forty  camels 
ut  any  rate,  the  care  which  he  put  it  by  convinced  me  that  it 
was  of  great  value,  and  I  determined  to  have  it. 

When  I  put  the  camels  in  order,  I  went  to  the  dervise,  and 
embracing  him,  bid  him  again  adieu !  but  just  as  I  was  turn- 
ing from  him,  I  said,  "  You,  who  have  renounced  the  vanities 
of  the  world,  can  have  no  use  for  pomatum.  I  wish  you  would 
make  me  a  present  of  that  you  took  out  of  the  treasury/' 
"  Most  willingly,"  replied  he,  taking  the  box  out  of  his  bosom, 
and  presenting  it  to  me  with  great  good  nature. 

I  was  surprised  at  his  parting  with  it  so  readily :  I  opened 
the  box,  and  asked  him  the  use  of  the  pomatum.  "  It  possess- 
es," said  he,  "  when  applied  by  me,  very  opposite  and  wonder- 
ful qualities.  If  I  anoint  your  left  eye  with  it,  you  will  see  all 
the  treasures  contained  in  the  bowels  of  the  earth  ;  if  I  apply 
it  to  your  right  eye,  you  will  become  blind." 

I  was  desirous  of  trying  the  experiment,  and  desired  the 
dervise  to  rub  some  of  it  on  my  left  eye.  When  he  had  done 
so,  I  saw  immense  treasures,  so  diversified,  that  it  is  impossible 
for  me  to  describe,  or  any  one  to  conceive  them.  Having 
contemplated  these  for  some  time,  I  requested  the  dervise  eo 
put  some  of  the  pomatum  on  my  right  eye  also. 

"  How,"  replied  he,  starting,  "  would  you  have  me  who  have 
Jone  you  so  much  service,  become  your  enemy,  and  do  you  an 
irreparable  injury  ?  I  call  God  to  witness  that  if  you  persist 
•n  your  resolution,  you  will  become  blind  immediately." 

The  more  earnest  the  dervise  was  with  me  to  desist,  the 
mere  I  determined  to  persevere.  I  thought  it  was  incredible 
that  the  pomatum  should  have  such  opposite  effects.  I  had 
no  doubt  but  by  means  of  some  of  it,  obtained  elsewhere,  the 
dervise  had  been  enabled  to  discover  the  treasure  he  had  led 
ne  to ;  and  I  reasoned  that  if  the  pomatum  being  applied  tf 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  34t 

wie  ey<3  could  show  me  all  the  treasures  of  the  earth,  very 
probably  by  applying  it  to  the  other,  I  might  obtain  the  means 
of  disposing  of  them.  Prepossessed  with  this  opinion,  I  said 
ro  the  dervise,  "  You  have  granted  me  everything  I  have  asked, 
deny  me  not  this  last  favor.  Whatever  consequences  may 
ensue,  I  excuse  you,  and  take  them  all  upon  myself.  If  you 
persist  in  refusing  me,  I  shall  he  convinced  you  have  some 
views  of  your  own,  which  you  wish  to  conceal :  I  shall  cease 
to  consider  you  as  my  benefactor,  and  shall  think  myself  en« 
titled  to  make  you  repent  your  obstinacy."  The  menacing 
manner  in  which  I  uttered  these  words  alarmed  the  dervise* 
He  made  haste  to  apply  the  pomatum  to  my  right  eye,  and  I 
instantly  became  blind,  as  you  see  me  now. 

"  Ah !  dervise,"  cried  I,  at  that  fatal  moment,  "  what  you 
told  me  is  too  true.  Unbounded  avarice  !  insatiable  thirst  of 
riches !  to  what  misery  have  you  reduced  me !  but  you,  dear 
brother,"  said  I  to  the  dervise,  "  are  charitable  and  good.  Ex- 
amine into  the  wonderful  secrets  you  know,  and  see  if  you 
have  not  one  to  restore  me  to  my  sight  again." 

u  Miserable  wretch,"  answered  the  dervise,  "  thou  hast  thy 
deserts !  the  blindness  of  thy  mind  was  the  cause  of  the  loss 
of  thy  eyes.  I  have  secrets ;  but  none  that  can  restore  thee 
to  sight.  Pray  to  God,  if  thou  believest  there  is  one ;  it  is  He 
alone  who  can.  He  gave  thee  riches,  of  which  thou  wert 
unworthy ;  He  takes  them  from  thee  again ;  and  will  by  my 
hands  bestow  them  upon  men  who  are  not  so  wicked  and  so 
ungrateful  as  thou  art." 

The  dervise  said  no  more,  and  I  had  nothing  to  reply; 
being  quite  confounded,  and  plunged  into  inexpressible  grief, 
I  besought  him  to  take  pity  of  my  miserable  situation ;  and  at 
least  to  conduct  me  to  the  first  caravan ;  but  he  was  deaf  to 
my  prayers  and  entreaties,  and  gathering  up  my  camels  he 
drove  them  away,  leaving  me  wretched,  poor,  and  blind. 

Thus  was  I  reduced  by  my  own  folly  and  wickedness  from 
%  condition  worthy  the  envy  of  princes,  to  beggary.  I  got  to 
Bagdad  by  the  charitable  assistance  of  some  travellers,  and  su 

29* 


142  AKABIAN   NIGHTS' 

I  have  no  other  way  to  subsist,  I  ask  alms ;  but  l^e  enjoined 
it  upon  myself,  by  way  of  penance,  to  receive  none,  whici 
are  not  accompanied  by  a  blow  from  the  hand  which  bestowi 
them. 

When  the  blind  man  had  finished  his  story,  the  caliph  said 
to  him,  "  Baba  Abdallah !  thy  sin  is  great ;  but,  God  be  praised ! 
thou  art  thyself  sensible  of  the  enormity  of  it.  I  will  not 
Buffer  this  public  penance.  I  will  settle  a  charity  on  thee  of 
four  silver  drachms  a  day ;  and  thou  mayest  then  devote  the 
remainder  of  thy  days  to  prayer  and  private  repentance,  in 
which  thou  canst  not  be  too  much  in  earnest. 

Then  turning  to  the  young  man  who  had  used  his  mare  so 
barbarously,  he  demanded  of  him  the  cause  of  his  inhumanity, 
when  he  gave  the  following  account  of  himself. 

The  Story  of  Sidi  Nonman. 

MY  name  is  Sidi  Nonman.  I  succeeded  a  few  years  ago  to 
a  moderate  fortune,  the  produce  of  my  father's  industry  and 
economy.  My  desires  were  suitable  to  my  station ;  and  I  only 
wanted  a  companion  to  share  my  felicity,  and  make  it  com- 
plete. 

In  this  hope  I  married,  some  time  since,  and,  as  it  is  the 
custom  among  us  to  marry  without  having  seen  the  bride,  I 
thought  myself  fortunate,  when  my  wife  was  brought  home,  to 
6nd  her  a  very  beautiful  woman. 

But  the  very  day  after  our  wedding,  a  circumstance  occurred 
which  greatly  abated  my  joy.  When  we  sat  down  to  dinner, 
I  began  to  eat  rice  with  a  spooa  as  usual ;  but  my  wife  pulled 
a  little  case  out  of  her  pocket,  and  taking  out  a  bodkin,  she 
nicked  up  the  rice  grain  by  grain. 

1  was  surprised  to  see  her  eat  in  this  manner,  and  entreated 
fcer  earnestly  to  eat  as  I  did.  She  did  not  even  condescend  tc 
Answer  me ;  but  continued  to  pick  up  her  rice  as  she  had  begun. 
I  tecame  angry ;  yet  recollecting  that  she  had  not  been  used 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  34& 

to  eat  with  men,  I  imputed  her  conduct  to  modesty ;  and  lefl 
her  after  dinner  without  showing  any  signs  of  displeasure. 

As,  she  continued  this  practice,  I  became  seriously  uneasy  at 
it.  When  she  did  not  eat  rice,  she  would  put  a  few  crumbs  of 
bread  into  her  mouth,  but  not  so  much  as  a  sparrow  could  eat, 
I  knew  it  was  impossible  for  any  one  to  live  on  such  little  foodj 
and  concluding  there  must  be  some  mystery  in  the  business,  1 
determined  to  dissemble,  and  while  I  seemed  to  take  no  notic* 
of  her  actions,  to  watch  her  with  the  closest  attention. 

One  night  when  Amina  (that  was  her  name)  thought  me  fast 
asleep,  she  got  out  of  bed,  dressed  herself,  and  went  out  very 
softly.  I  feigned  a  sound  sleep ;  but  the  moment  she  left  the 
room,  I  hastily  slipped  on  my  clothes  and  followed  her  into  the 
street. 

She  went  to  a  bui'ying-place  at  the  end  of  the  town  ;  it  was 
moon-light.  I  got  to  the  end  of  the  wall,  taking  care  not  to  be 
discovered ;  and  looking  over,  I  saw  Amina  with  a  goule. 

Your  majesty  no  doubt  knows  that  goules  are  wandeiing 
demons,  who  generally  rebort  to  decayed  buildings,  from  whence 
they  rush  on  people  passing  by,  kill  them,  and  eat  their  flesh ; 
and  that  in  want  of  prey,  the/  will  go  by  night  into  the  bury- 
ing grounds  and  feed  upon  the  dead  bodies. 

I  was  exceedingly  shocked  vo  see  my  wife  with  this  goule. 
They  dug  up  a  body  which  had  been  buried  that .  day,  and  the 
goule  cutting  the  flesh  into  slices,  they  ate  together.  I  was  too 
far  off  to  hear  their  discourse,  whicl  no  doubt  was  as  horrid  as 
their  feast. 

I  went  home  with  ideas  I  know  not  how  to  describe,  ami 
laying  down,  when  Amina  returned  I  pretended  to  be  fa*t 
asleep.  She  did  not  stay  long  afte/  me,  and  coming  to  bt^l 
tery  silently,  she  either  fell  asleep,  or  seemed  to  do  so. 

I  was  so  struck  with  the  abominable  action  I  had  seen,  that 
it  was  with  reluctance  I  suffered  her  to  lay  by  me.  I  arose  a» 
daybreak,  and  went  to  the  mosque.  After  prayers,  finding 
•ny  mind  greatly  agitated,  I  passed  the  morning  in  the  gardens, 
Deliberating  with  myself  how  I  ought  to  act  I  rejected  ti' 


344  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

violent  measures;  and  resolved  that  I  would  endeavor  U 
reform  her  by  gentle  and  affectionate  expostulation. 

When  I  returned,  and  dinner  was  served,  Amina  ate  as 
usual.  The  table  being  cleared,  I  drew  near  to  her  and  said| 
"  Why,  my  dear  Amina,  will  you  persist  in  despising  my  table, 
f  jid  not  eating  your  food  with  me  ?  I  have  tried  every  sort  of 
dainty,  yet  you  still  refuse  to  forego  your  contemptuous  absti- 
nence. Tell  me,  I  conjure  you,  Amina,  are  not  the  meat* 
served  up  at  my  table  better  than  dead  men's  flesh  ?  " 

I  had  no  sooner  uttered  these  words  than  she  flew  in  a  rage, 
her  face  became  distorted,  her  eyes  were  ready  to  start  from 
her  head ;  she  even  foamed  with  passion.  Frightened  at  her 
appearance,  I  sat  immovable.  In  the  midst  of  the  most  horrid 
execrations,  she  threw  some  water  in  my  face,  and  added, 
"  receive  the  reward  of  thy  impertinent  curiosity."  I  instantly 
became  a  dog. 

My  terror  and  grief  at  this  transformation  was  extreme ;  but 
my  attention  was  presently  called  to  my  safety;  for  Amina 
presently  took  up  a  great  stick,  and  beat  me  till  she  was  weary. 
She  then  opened  the  street  door,  with  an  intent  to  squeeze  me 
between  that  and  the  wall;  but  I  was  aware  of  her  cruel 
design,  and  looking  earnestly  in  her  face,  I  whipped  through 
so  nimbly  as  to  escape  with  only  the  loss  of  part  of  my  tail. 

The  pain  I  felt  made  me  cry  out  and  howl.  This  brought 
me  a  number  of  other  dogs  about  me ;  to  avoid  them  I  took 
shelter  in  the  shop  of  a  tripe-seller.  This  man  was  unfor- 
tunately one  of  those  superstitious  persons  who  think  dogs 
unclean  creatures ;  and  that,  if  by  chance,  one  happen  to  touch 
one  of  them,  no  washing  scarcely  is  sufficient  to  make  one  clean 
again.  While  this  man  was  driving  away  the  other  dogs,  1 
hid  myself  out  of  his  reach,  and  passed  the  night  in  his  house, 
very  much  against  his  inclination.  Indeed,  I  stood  in  need  of 
rest  to  recover  Amina's  ill-treatment  of  me. 

In  the  morning  I  crept  out  of  my  hole,  but  soon  found  froa 
the  manners  of  my  host,  that  I  must  seek  another  asylum 
He  drove  me  out  of  his  house  with  great  indignation.  A  few 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  34* 

further  there  lived  a  baker,  of  a  temper  very  different 
from  the  tripe-man.  He  was  merry  and  good-humored,  where- 
as  the  latter  was  eaten  up  with  melancholy.  To  this  baker  I 
presented  myself,  and  so  managed  that  he  seemed  to  find  out 
what  I  wanted;  for  he  not  only  fed  me,  but  s*howed  me  a 
place  where  to  lie,  which  I  immediately  took  possession  of. 

My  new  master  became  very  fond  of  me ;  and  I,  on  my 
part,  showed  every  mark  of  fidelity  and  attachment.  Out 
day  a  woman  came  into  the  shop  to  buy  some  bread,  and 
offered  a  piece  of  bad  money  among  some  good.  The  baker 
refused  it :  the  woman  insisted  it  was  good.  "  Good,"  replied 
my  master ;  "  why,  my  very  dog  k  nows  better  !  Here,"  said 
he,  calling  me  to  leap  on  the  counter,  u  tell  me  which  of  these 
pieces  of  money  is  bad  ?  "  I  looked  at  the  several  pieces,  and 
putting  my  paw  on  the  bad  piece,  separated  it  from  the  others. 

The  baker,  who  never  in  the  least  thought  of  my  finding 
out  the  bad  piece,  but  only  called  me  to  banter  the  woman, 
was  very  much  surprised.  The  woman  also  was  in  confusion. 
My  master  related  the  story  to  his  neighbors,  and  the  woman 
to  her  acquaintance ;  so  that  the  fame  of  my  abilities  were 
spread  all  over  the  city ;  and  my  master  had  so  many  new 
customers,  who  came  to  see  my  performance,  that  he  owned  to 
his  neighbors  I  was  a  treasure  to  him. 

Many  people  endeavored  in  vain  to  steal  me  from  my  friend- 
ly  master ;  but  one  morning  a  woman  who  came  to  try  my 
knowledge  of  money,  upon  my  pointing  out  the  piece  that  wa* 
bad,  said,  with  particular  point,  "  Yes,  thou  art  in  the  right  of 
ii ;  it  is  bad."  She  staid  some  time  in  the  shop,  and  made  mt 
a  signal  unobserved  by  the  baker,  to  follow  her. 

I  was  always  attentive  to  anything  which  seemed  likely  tc 
lead  to  my  deliverance.  I  took  notice  of  the  woman's  singulai 
behavior ;  and  when  she  was  departing,  I  kept  my  eyes  fixe<i 
upon  her.  After  she  had  gone  a  few  steps,  she  turned  aboul 
and  again  made  me  a  sign  to  go  with  her, 

I  hesitated  no  longer ;  but  observing  my  master  was  busy, 
{  jumped  off  the  counter,  and  followed  her.  8he  seemed  over 


146  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

joyed,  and  after  we  had  gone  a  little  way,  she  opened  a  doof 
and  calling  me,  stiid,  "  thou  wilt  not  repent  thy  coming  witl 
me/' 

She  carried  me  into  a  chamber  where  there  was  a  young 
lady,  working  embroidery.  «  Daughter,"  said  she,  "  I  have 
brought  the  baker's  famous  dog,  that  can  distinguish  money 
Am  I  right  in  my  conjecture  that  it  is  a  man  transformed  into 
this  animal  ? "  "  You  are  right,  mother,"  replied  the  lady. 
Then  rising  up,  she  threw  some  water  over  me,  saying,  "  if 
thou  wast  created  a  dog,  remain  so ;  but  if  thou  wert  a  man, 
resume  thy  former  shape."  At  that  instant  the  enchantment 
was  at  an  end,  and  I  became  a  man  as  before. 

I  returned  proper  acknowledgments  to  the  two  ladies,  t' 
whom  I  owed  my  deliverance ;  and  at  their  desire  related  the 
circumstances  that  led  to  my  transformation.  "  I  know  Amina 
well,"  said  the  young  lady,  "  we  both  learnt  magic  under  the 
same  mistress.  But  our  tempers  are  different,  and  we  have 
avoided  each  other.  I  am  not  at  all  surprised  at  her  wicked- 
ness, and  will  enable  you  to  punish  her  as  she  deserves." 

My  benefactress  withdrew  to  consult  her  book?  ;  and  pres 
ently  returned  with  a  little  bottle  in  her  hand.  "  Sidi  Non- 
man,"  said  she,  "  your  wife  is  now  abroad,  but  will  return 
speedily:  take  this  little  bottle,  and  go  home  immediately. 
WheL  she  comes  home  meet  her  abruptly.  She  will  then 
turn  back  to  run  away.  Be  sure  to  have  this  bottle  ready, 
and  throw  some  liquor  it  contains  upon  her,  saying,  boldly, 
1  receive  the  chastisement  of  thy  wickedness.'  I  will  tell  you 
no  more ;  you  will  see  the  effect." 

After  repeating  my  thanks  to  my  deliverers  I  went  home. 
Amina  was  not  long  before  she  returned  also.  I  met  her  in 
tbe  yard.  As  soon  as  she  saw  me,  she  shrieked,  and  turned 
to  run  away.  I  pursued  the  directions  I  had  received,  anf 
ehe  became  the  mare  your  majesty  saw  me  upon  yesterday, 
I  seized  her,  and  led  her  into  a  stable,  where  I  tied  her  to  a 
manger,  and  whipped  her  till  I  was  weary,  reproaching  hei 
all  the  while  with  her  enormities.  Since  then  I  have  punfrb 


ENT  ERTATNMEK  TS.  84* 

dd  )»er  every  day,  in  the  manner  your  majesty  saw;  and  1 
hop",  y  5U  will  think  I  have  not  dealt  too  severely  by  so  very 
wicked  a  woman." 

"I  <-k»  not  absolutely  condemn  thy  severity,"  replied  the 
caliph :  "  thou  hast  certainly  received  great  provocation ;  but 
surely  it  is  severe  punishment  to  be  reduced  into  the  numbei 
of  beasts,  and  I  would  have  thee  be  content  with  that  chastise 
ment  which  I  do  not  desire  should  be  done  away,  lest  fbou 
*houl'73t  be  exposed  to  more  mischief  from  thy  wife's  revenge." 

I 

Th  >  caliph  then  turned  himself  to  the  third  person  who  had  ' 
been  summoned.  "  Cogia  Hassan,"  said  he,  "  passing  by  thy 
house  yesterday,  I  was  induced,  by  its  handsome  appearance, 
to  inquire  after  the  owner.  I  was  informed,  that  not  long 
since  thou  wast  very  poor,  and  could  scarcely  get  bread  for 
thy  family ;  yet  thou  hast  since  built  that  palace,  and  livest 
plenteously.  Thy  neighbors  also  speak  well  of  thee ;  as  thou 
makest  a  good  use  of  thy  wealth. 

"All  this  pleases  me;  but,  as  I  am  persuaded  that  thou  has. 
obtained  riches  in  an  unusual  manner,  I  am  curious  to  know 
how  thou  hast  become  wealthy ;  speak  the  truth,  that,  when  1 
know  thy  story,  I  may  rejoice  with  thee." 

Cogia  Hassan  paid  the  usual  homage  to  the  caliph,  and 
thus  obeyed  his  commands. 

J.TW  Story  of  Cogia  Hassan  AlhabbaL 

IT  is  necessary,  before  I  say  anything  to  your  majesty  of 
ay  own  affairs,  to  acquaint  you  that  there  are  now  living  in 
iJagdad,  two  intimate  friends,  whose  manners  are  much  alike, 
though  their  fortunes  vary.  Saadi  being  very  rich ;  while 
Saad.  enjoys  with  content  a  moderate  competence. 

These  persons  had  long  debated  on  the  different  degrees  in 
dfe ;  and  the  means  of  man's  advancement  in  it.  Saadi  as- 
lerted  that,  setting  idleness  and  vice  out  of  the  question,  any 
man  possessing  a  moderate  sum  of  money  to  begin  the  wurW 


348  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

ivith,  must  infallibly  grow  rich.  While  Saad  contei^led  tha> 
iceident  often  preveLted,  and  often  promoted  the  success  01 
human  affairs. 

As  they  had  frequently  canvassed  this  matter  over,  Saadi 
put  two  hundred  pieces  of  gold  in  a  bag,  and  said  to  his  friena 
u  I  have  resolved  to  try  an  experiment,  whether  my  opinion  is 
not  well  founded.  We  will  find  out  some  honest,  diligent 
artisan,  who  i?  poor:  1  will  give  him  this  sum  to  set  him 
forward ;  and  I  doubt  not  a  few  months  will  prove  the  trutb 
of  this  remark." 

I  was  the  fortunate  man  with  whom  trial  was  agreed  to  be 
made.  The  friends  came  to  me  while  I  was  busy  in  my 
paternal  occupation  of  rope-making.  My  diligent  attention  to 
labor  had  been  often  remarked  by  them  in  the  course  of  their 
dispute ;  and  my  poverty  was  apparent  enough. 

Saadi  questioned  me  on  the  cause  of  my  needy  appearance. 
"  You  are  always  at  work,"  said  he,  "  yet  your  circumstances 
do  not  seem  to  improve ! "  "  Alas,  sir,"  replied  I,  "  let  me 
vork  as  hard  as  I  will,  I  can  hardly  buy  bread  and  pulse  for 
iny  family.  I  have  a  wife  and  five  children  \7hom  I  must 
feed  and  clothe ;  and  in  our  poor  way  they  still  want  a  thousand 
necessaries  which  my  labor  will  not  supply.  It  is  enough  if 
we  are  content  with  the  little  God  sends  us ;  satisfied  to  live 
in  the  way  we  have  been  bred  up,  and  thankful  that  we  have 
no  occasion  to  ask  charity ! " 

"  But,"  sa'd  Saadi,  "  if  I  was  to  give  you  two  hundred  pieces 
of  gold,  do  you  think  that  with  such  a  sum  you  could  get 
forward  in  the  world  ? "  "  You  do  not  look,  sir,"  replied  I, 
%  as  if  you  meant  to  banter  me  ;  I  therefore  answer,  seriously, 
that  such  a  sum  would,  in  a  short  time,  make  me  richer  than 
any  man  of  my  profession  in  Bagdad."  The  generous  Saadi 
soon  convinced  me  that  he  was  in  earnest,  for,  putting  the 
purse  into  my  hand,  he  said,  "  here  is  the  sum  I  mentioned ; 
eake  it,  and  I  pray  God  to  bless  you  with  it.  All  the  return  J 
desire  is  to  see  you  make  a  good  use  of  it,  and  that  we  maj 
have  the  pleasure  to  find  it  has  contributed  to  make  you 
if>r  than  yon  are  now." 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4fc 

I  wae  transported  with  joy  at  this  unexpected  event,  and 
scarce  knew  how  to  express  my  gratitude.  The  two  friends 
having  repeated  their  good  advice,  left  me ;  and  I  legan  to 
consider  where  I  should  bestow  my  treasure,  having  neilhei 
box  nor  cupboard  to  lock  it  up  in.  I  had  been  used,  as  most 
poor  people  do,  when  I  had  a  little  money,  to  put  it  in  the 
foldings  of  my  turban.  I  resolved  to  do  so  with  this  larg*5 
gum ;  first  taking  out  ten  pieces  for  present  necessaries. 

I  then  went  and  bought  some  hemp  •  and  as  my  family  had 
daten  no  fresh  meat  for  a  long  time,  I  went  to  the  shambles 
and  bought  some  for  supper.  As  I  was  carrying  my  meat 
home  on  my  head,  a  famished  kite  flew  at  it,  and  would  have 
snatched  it  from  me.  In  the  struggle  it  fell  from  my  head, 
yet  I  still  kept  hold  of  it.  But  my  turban  falling  off,  and 
some  pieces  of  meat  sticking  to  it,  the  kite  made  a  stoop  at 
that,  and  catching  it  up,  flew  away  with  it. 

My  sorrow  for  this  loss  was  inconceivable.  I  had  indeed 
laid  out  part  of  the  ten  pieces  in  hemp ;  yet  a  great  part  of 
what  was  left  went  to  buy  a  new  turban.  My  hopes  were  all 
at  an  end.  But  I  can  truly  say  that  my  greatest  concern  was 
that  I  should  tye  obliged  to  give  my  benefactor  so  bad  an 
account  of  his  liberal  donation. 

While  the  remainder  of  the  ten  pieces  lasted,  my  little 
family  and  I  fared  the  better  for  it ;  but  we  soon  returned  to 
our  usual  poverty.  I  did  not,  however,  repine.  "  God,"  said 
I, "  was  pleased  to  give  me  riches  when  I  least  expected  them ; 
and  has  thought  fit  to  take  them  away  from  me  again.  I  will 
praise  his  name  for  the  benefits  I  have  received,  and  submit 
myself  entirely  to  his  will." 

In  about  six  months,  as  I  was  at  work,  I  saw  the  two  friends 
coining  towards  me,  and  heard  Saad  say,  "  I  see  no  difference 
in  the  appearance  of  Hassan  Alhabbal,  but  that  he  hath  got  a 
new  turban.  I  doubt  you  will  not  find  his  affairs  much  mended/ 

By  this  time  they  were  come  so  near,  that  Saadi,  instead  of 
sewering  his  friend,  saluted  me.  "  Well,  Hassan,"  said  he 

30 


S&O  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

*  we  do  not  ask  you  how  your  affairs  go  since  we  saw  y<w* 
No  djubt  they  carry  a  better  face." 

u  Gentlemen,"  replied  I,  "  I  have  the  mortification  to  ted 
you,  that  your  bounty  to  me  has  not  prospered  in  my  hands 
I  can  ssarce  expect  you  will  believe  the  cause  of  your  disap 
pointment.  I  assure  you,  nevertheless,  on  the  word  oi  ar 
honest  man,  that  what  I  am  about  to  tell  you  is  exactly  true." 
I  then  related  to  them  what  had  happened. 
I  Saadi  heard  my  account  with  incredulity  and  impatience 
u  What  a  fable  have  you  invented,  Hassan  ?  "  replied  he,  in- 
dignantly. Kites  are  birds  of  prey,  who  seek  only  the  means 
of  gratifying  their  hunger.  Who  ever  heard  of  their  seizing 
turbans  ?  you  have  done  as  other  idle  fellows  do ;  having 
unexpectedly  obtained  a  sum  of  money,  you  have  neglected 
your  affairs,  and  squandered  it  in  gratifying  your  appetites." 
The  manner  in  which  I  bore  these  reproaches  convinced  Saad 
that  I  did  not  deserve  them.  He  took  my  part  warmly,  and 
with  so  much  success,  that  Saadi  consented  to  renew  his  ex 
periment,  and  to  give  me  two  hundred  pieces  of  gold  again. 

When  the  friends  left  me  I  went  home  rejoicing.  Finding 
neither  my  wife  nor  children  at  home,  I  separated  ten  pieces 
from  the  two  hundred,  and  tied  up  the  remainder  in  a  clean 
linen  cloth ;  but  was  at  a  loss  where  to  place  it  that  it  might 
be  safe.  At  last  I  cast  my  eyes  on  a  large  jar  which  stood  in 
a  corner  full  of  bran.  Amidst  this  bran,  which  we  seldom 
used,  I  deposited  my  treasure,  and  having  but  little  hemp  in 
the  house  I  went  out  to  buy  some. 

While  I  was  gone  my  wife  returned.  It  chanced  that  a 
sand-man  passed  by,  and  as  we  wanted  sand,  and  my  wife  had 
no  money  to  buy  any,  she  struck  a  bargain  with  the  sand-man 
tc  barter  away  the  jar  of  bran  for  a  supply  of  his  sand,  and 
accordingly  delivered  it  to  him,  with  the  hundred  and  ninety 
pieces  of  gold  at  the  bottom  of  it. 

Soon  after  I  returned  laden  with  hemp,  and  in  high  spirits 
Tor  this  second  unexpected  good  fortune.  But  my  joy  waa 
loon  at  an  end  when  I  missed  the  jar  of  bran.  I  hastily  asked 


I NTERTAINMENTS.  £1 

was  become  of  it  ?  and  soon  learnt  that  by  an  unaccoupt- 
able  accident,  which  I  could  neither  foresee  nor  prevent,  mj 
hopes  of  fortune  were  again  destroyed. 

But  I  was  obliged  to  forget  my  own  sorrow  for  a  time,  to 
support  my  wife,  who  was  inconsolable.  Women  are  often 
eloquent  in  their  grief.  Her  lamentations  were  excessive.  1 
represented  to  her  that  it  was  better  to  bear  our  loss  patiently ; 
than  by  clamorously  lamenting  it,  excite  the  ridicule  rather 
than  the  pity  of  our  neighbors.  "  It  is  true,"  continued  I, 
•*  we  have  twice  had  the  means  of  becoming  rich  in  our  power, 
and  each  time  have  lost  them  by  extraordinary  chances.  But 
though  we  are  poor,  do  we  not  breathe  the  same  air,  and 
enjoy  the  same  light  and  warmth  as  the  wealthy  ?  if  our  means 
are  still  slender,  let  our  wishes  continue  moderate,  and  then 
the  difference  between  poor  and  rich  is  but  inconsiderable; 
especially  if  we  live  as  we  ought  to  do,  in  the  fear  of  God." 
By  these  arguments  I  pacified  my  wife,  and  returning  cheer- 
fully to  my  labor,  I  very  soon  recovered  my  spirits. 

A  considerable  time  afterwards,  as  I  was  at  work,  I  saw 
the  two  friends  coming  towards  me.  I  was  covered  with  con- 
fusion, and  was  about  to  run  away  and  hide  myself;  but  recol- 
lecting that  such  a  conduct  would  imply  guilt ;  and  though  I 
was  unfortunate,  I  was  not  criminal,  I  determined  to  face  their 
reproaches. 

When  they  came  up  to  me,  I  directly  told  them  the  parti- 
culars of  my  last  misfortune,  and  that  I  was  as  poor  as  ever.  I 
added,  "  I  see  it  has  pleased  God  that  I  am  not  to  be  enriched 
by  your  bounty.  I  am  born  to  poverty ;  but  my  obligation  to 
you  is  as  great  as  if  your  generous  intentions  had  taken  place." 

Saadi  heard  me  out,  and  answered  with  good  humor, "  though 
all  you  tell  us,  Hassan,  nmy  be  true,  and  our  disappointment 
may  not  be  owing  to  your  idleness  'or  extravagance,  yet  T 
hall  pursue  this  experiment  no  further.  I  do  not  regret  hav- 
ing given  you  four  hundred  pieces  of  gold  to  raise  you  in  the 
world ;  I  am  only  sorry  I  did  not  meet  with  some  other  man 
tvho  might  have  made  a  better  use  of  my  charity.  You  98t>, ' 


352  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

said  he,  turning  to  Saad,  "  I  do  not  give  up  my  argument.  I* 
is  now  your  turn  to  try.  Let  Hassan  be  the  man ;  and  see  it 
without  giving  him  na^ney,  you  can  mend  his  fortune."  Saad 
smiled,  and  having  in  his  hand  a  piece  of  lead,  which  he  had 
picked  up  in  his  walk,  he  gave  it  to  me,  saying,  "  Here,  Has« 
san,  take  this ;  and  see  if  one  day  you  will  not  give  me  a  good 
account  of  it"  Saadi  laughed  at  his  friend ;  -  and,  indeed,  1 
thought  he  was  in  jest.  However,  I  took  the  lead  and  thanked 
him,  and  put  it  in  my  pocket.  The  gentlemen  pursued  their 
walk,  and  I  returned  to  my  work. 

When  I  was  going  to  rest,  the  piece  of  lead,  which  I  had 
never  thought  of  from  the  time  I  received  it,  fell  out  of  my 
pocket.  I  took  it  up  and  put  it  on  the  shelf.  The  same  night 
it  happened  that  a  fisherman,  who  lived  just  by,  was  mending 
his  nets,  and  found  a  piece  of  lead  was  missing ;  it  was  too 
late  to  buy  any,  and  he  must  either  fish  that  night,  or  his 
family  go  without  bread  next  day.  In  this  necessity  he  sent 
his  wife  to  beg  a  bit  of  lead  of  any  of  his  neighbors ;  but,  as  it 
was  late,  and  every-body  in  bed,  some  called  out  that  they 
had  none,  others  scolding  her  for  disturbing  them,  and  many 
would  give  no  answer  at  all.  The  poor  woman  began  to 
despair  of  success,  when  coming  to  my  door,  she  thought  she 
would  try  once  more. 

She  knocked  accordingly,  and  called  out  for  what  she  wanted. 
1  was  in  a  sound  sleep  when  she  came ;  but  when  I  awoke  I 
recollected  the  piece  of  lead  which  Saad  had  given  me ;  I 
arose  and  gave  it  to  her.  The  fisherman's  wife  was  so  over- 
joyed, that  she  promised  we  should  have  the  first  cast  of  the 
net ;  and  when  she  told  her  husband  what  had  befallen  her, 
he  much  approved  her  promise. 

At  his  first  throw  he  caught  only  one  large  fish,  which  he 
pu*  by  for  me,  and  on  his  return  gave  it  to  me  according  tc 
his  wife's  promise.  I  accepted  my  neighbor's  present  very 
thankfully,  and  carrying  it  home  told  my  wife  how  I  came  by 
it  "It  will  be  all,"  said  I,  uj.hat  we  can  expect  from  Saad'f 
lead." 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  853 

I  i  gutting  the  fish,  my  wife  found  a  large  diamond,  which 
«he  supposed  was  a  piece  of  glass.  She  washed  it,  and  gavt* 
it  to  the  children  for  a  plaything.  At  night,'  when  the  lamp 
was  lighted,  the  reflection  of  the  light  upon  the  diamond  wat 
so  beautiful,  that  they  were  ready  to  scramble  for  it,  all  making 
a  violent  noise. 

There  lived  next  door  to  me  a  very  rich  Jew,  who  was  a 
jeweller.  The  noise  the  children  had  made  having  disturbed 
him,  his  wife  came  next  day  to  complain  of  it.  My  wife  told 
her  the  cause  of  the  clamor,  and,  reaching  the  diamond  from 
the  chimney,  showed  her  the  piece  of  glass,  as  she  called  it, 
which  she  had  found  in  the  belly  of  the  fish,  and  which  the 
children  fell  out  about. 

The  Jewess  immediately  knew  it  was  a  diamond  of  very 
great  value.  She  looked  at  it  for  some  time,  and  then  return- 
ing it  to  my  wife,  said,  coolly,  "  it  is  a  pretty  piece  of  glass 
enough  :  I  have  got  just  such  another ;  ana  as  they  will  match 
together,  if  you  will  sell  me  yours,  I  will  give  you  a  trifle  for 
it."  The  children  hearing  this,  began  tc  entreat  their  mother 
not  to  sell  their  plaything ;  and  to  quiet  them,  she  promised 
she  would  not.  The  Jewess,  being  thus  disappointed,  took 
ner  leave;  but  first  whispered  my  wile  to  desire,  if  it  was 
sold,  she  might  be  the  purchaser. 

The  Jewess  hastened  to  her  husband,  who  was  at  his  shot* 
and  told  him  what  had  happened.  She  gave  him  such  an 
account  of  the  diamond,  that  he  sent  h^r  back  directly,  with 
orders  to  offer  a  small  sum  at  first  for  it,  and  so  rise  by 
degrees ;  but  by  no  means  to  come  away  without  it. 

My  wife  was  surprised  to  see  the  Jewess  come  again  to  our 
j&ouse,  for,  as  they  were  rich,  and  we  poor,  they  had  always 
held  us  in  contempt.  She  came  now  in  a  very  familiar  man* 
iier,  and,  after  talking  of  other  things,  she  carelessly  offered 
twenty  pieces  of  gold  for  the  piece  of  glass.  The  sum  appear- 
ed to  my  wife  so  considerable,  that  she  told  her  she  could  not 
part  with  it  without  consulting  me. 

When  I  came  home  to  dinner,  while  my  wife  was 
30* 


554  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

fcfcis  atwmnt,  the  Jewess  entered,  and  repeated  her  offer  tc 
oie.  It  struck  me  that  Saad  had  given  me  that  piece  of  lead 
to  make  my  fortune,  and  as  I  was  revolving  this  in  my  mind, 
t  did  not  answer  immediately  ;  on  which  the  Jewess  said, 
eagerly,  "  if  that  wont  do,  I  will  give  you  fifty." 

She  was  unguarded  for  one  moment,  and  that  was  enough 
for  me.  I  told  her  I  knew  it  was  a  jewel,  and  of  great  valua 
She  laughed  at  me ;  yet  continued  advancing  in  price,  till,  by 
degrees,  she  had  offered  me  fifty  thousand  pieces  of  gold.  I 
then  told  her  I  would  have  a  hundred  thousand  pieces  for  it ; 
on  which  she  gave  up  the  matter,  and  we  parted. 

In  the  evening  her  husband  came,  and  desired  to  see  my 
diamond,  as  he  readily  called  it.  Having  examined  it  he 
offered  me  seventy  thousand  pieces ;  after  much  cavilling  he 
came  up  to  my  price,  and  paid  me  one  hundred  thousand 
pieces  of  gold,  on  my  delivering  him  the  diamond. 

Being  thus  enriched  beyond  my  imagination,  I  determined 
not  to  live  a  life  of  idleness.  I  took  large  warehouses,  and 
engaged  a  number  of  workmen  in  my  own  business ;  and  by 
diligence  and  punctuality,  I  am  become  the  most  Considerable 
merchant  in  my  line. 

I  never  forgot  how  much  I  owed  to  Saad  and  Saadi.  J 
would  have  gone  and  thrown  myself  at  their  feet,  if  I  had 
known  where  they  lived ;  but  I  heard  nothing  of  them  for  a 
long  time:  at  length  the  two  friends,  walking  near  my  old 
habitation,  recollected  me,  and  determined  to  inquire  what 
had  become  of  me.  They  were  surprised  to  hear  that  I  now 
was  a  great  merchant,  had  built  a  large  palace,  and  was  no 
longer  Hassan  Alhabbal,  or  Hassan  the  rope-maker ;  but  Cogia 
Hassan,  or  merchant  Hassan. 

The  set  out  immediately  for  my  house,  and,  as  they  walked, 
Saadi  said,  "  I  am  overjoyed  that  I  have  raised  Hassan's  for- 
mn3,  but  cannot  forgive  the  two  lies  he  told  me,  by  which  he 
obtained  four  hundred  pieces  instead  of  two ;  for  neither  I,  not 
any  one,  can  imagine  he  has  got  rich  by  any  other  means-' 
ftaad  smiled,  and  was  silent. 


ENTEKTAINMENTS.  35* 

\YTien  they  arrived  at  my  house,  the  grandeur  of  it  struct 
Lhem  so  much  that  they  could  scarcely  believe  it  belonged  to 
the  same  Hassan  they  had  lately  known  in  such  extreme 
poverty.  As  soon  as  I  saw  them  I  rose  and  ran  to  meet  them, 
and  would  have  kissed  the  hem  of  their  garments  if  they  would 
have  permitted  me.  They  congratulated  me  on  my  good  for- 
tune ;  on  my  part  I  received  them  with  the  sincerest  joy, 
assuring  them  that  I  had  not  forgot  that  I  had  been  Hassan 
Alhabbal,  or  the  obligations  I  had  to  them. 

After  they  had  sat  down,  Saadi  said,  "  I  am  very  glad,  Cogia 
Hassan,  to  see  you  in  this  flourishing  situation.  I  have  no 
doubt  but  that  you  have  judiciously  managed  the  four  hundred 
pieces  of  gold  you  received  from  me ;  but  it  vexes  me  that 
you  should  have  invented  two  such  incredible  tales,  when  the 
truth  would  have  done  you  so  much  more  honor." 

In  answer  to  this  charge  I  related  the  manner  in  which  I 
had  obtained  my  wealth.  Saad  rejoiced  exceedingly  in  the 
adventure ;  but  Saadi  was  not  so  soon  convinced.  "  This  story," 
said  he,  "  of  the  fish  and  the  diamond  found  in  his  belly,  is 
more  unlikely  than  those  of  the  kite  and  turban,  or  the  jar  of 
bran ;  be  it  as  it  may,  I  am  glad,  Cogia  Hassan,  that  you  are 
no  longer  poor,  and  that  I  am  the  cause  of  your  good  fortune." 
As  I  found  it  was  in  vain  to  combat  any  further  the  prejudices 
of  Saadi,  I  contented  myself  with  giving  bim  a  general  an- 
swer expressive  of  my  gratitude  to  them  both  ;  and  desiring 
they  would  pass  the  evening  with  me,  and  go  the  next  day  to 
my  country  house,  which  was  not  far  from  Bagdad,  to  which 
they  agreed. 

We  arrived  there  next  morning,  and,  walking  in  the  garden, 
we  met  my  two  sons  and  their  tutor.  It  was  tin  hour  of 
vheir  amusement,  and  the  lads  having  found  out  a  large  bird's 
nest  the  day  before,  had  prevailed  with  a  slave  to  climb  the 
tree  and  get  it  for  them.  He  came  down  with  it  just  as  we 
arrived. 

On  examining  the  nest  we  found  it  was  built  in  a  turban. 
Ik  chnumstance  excited  all  our  attention,  and  we  survey^ 


356  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

it  closely ;  when  I  soon  kne^v  it  to  be  the  same  turban  tht 
kite  had  snatched  from  me.  I  pointed  out  to  my  guests  the 
impossibility  of  any  human  hand  having  formed  such  a  nest, 
and  the  apparent  certainty  that  the  turban  must  have  lain 
in  the  tree  a  considerable  time.  I  then  ordered  my  slave  to 
pull  it  to  pieces ;  and  ir  it  we  found  the  hundred  and  ninety 
pieces  of  gold  in  the  same  bag  in  which  Saadi  had  given 
them  to  me. 

My  benefactor  could  not  dispute  so  manifest  a  truth.  "  1 
am  convinced,"  said  he,  "  that  you  did  lose  the  first  sum  I 
gave  you,  and  entirely  acquit  you  of  having  obtained  by  fraud 
a  second  supply ;  but  that  you  lost  the  last  sum  in  a  jar  of 
bran,  I  cannot  help  doubting  still.  That  money,  I  am  yet 
inclined  to  think,  was  the  first  step  to  your  present  opulence.' 
I  had  too  much  gratitude  to  contest  with  Saadi :  I  contented 
myself  with  joking  with  him  on  his  incredulity,  and  we  pur- 
sued our  amusements. 

In  the  evening  we  returned  to  Bagdad ;  and  putting  up  OUA 
horses,  we  continued  in  the  stable  to  see  them  fed.  By  tho 
negligence  of  my  servants,  we  were  out  of  oats  ;  and  the  store- 
houses being  all  shut,  I  sent  a  slave  to  a  neighboring  shop  to 
buy  some  bran.  He  returned  with  a  jar,  which  he  emptied 
before  us.  Saadi  perceived  something  bulky  to  fall  out  with 
the  bran,  stooped  to  pick  it  up.  It  was  a  linen  cloth  —  heavy, 
and  tied  very  tight.  Before  he  opened  it,  I  recollected  it  \ 
and  told  him  providence  would  not  suffer  us  to  part,  till  ho 
was  fully  convinced  of  my  integrity.  We  found  in  it  thr 
other  hundred  and  ninety  pieces  I  had  lost. 

Saadi  embraced  me,  and  acknowledged  himself  overcome 
We  agreed  to  give  the  two  sums,  so  opportunely  recovered,  to 
the  poor.  I  am  rejoiced  to  finish  my  stony  by  adding,  thai 
Saadi  and  Saad  received  me  into  their  friendship,  which  in 
one  ."the  greatest  felicities  of  my  present  situation. 

The  caliph  listened  to  this  narrative  with  attention.  When 
*  was  finished,  he  said,  "  Cogia  Hassan,  I  have  not  a  long 


CNTEKTAINMENTS  353 

lune,  L^ard  anything  that  has  given  me  more,  pleasure,  than 
this  account  of  the  wonderful  manner  in  which  God  has  given 
thee  riches.  Continue  to  return  him  thanks  by  the  good  use 
thou  makest  of  his  blessings.  The  diamond  which  made  thy 
fortune  is  in  my  treasury.  Take  thy  friends  there,  and  I  wil) 
arder  my  treasurer  to  show  it  them.  Relate  also  thy  story 
ugain  to  him,  that  he  may  put  it  in  writing,  and  keep  it  with 
the  diamond." 

The  caliph  then  dismissed  Cogia  Hassan,  Sidi  Nonman, 
and  Baba  Abdallah ;  who,  having  taken  leave  by  the  custom 
ary  salutations,  retired. 

The  Story  of  Ali  Baba,  and  the  Forty  Thieves. 

IN  a  town  in  Persia,  there  lived  two  brothers,  called  Cassim 
and  Ali  Baba.  Their  father  had  left  the  little  substance  he 
had,  between  them ;  but  they  were  not  equally  fortunate.  Cas- 
eim  married  a  wife  who  had  a  large  fortune;  and  became 
a  wealthy  and  considerable  merchant.  Ali  Baba  married  a 
woman  as  poor  as  himself.  His  whole  substance  consisted  of 
three  asses,  which  he  used  to  drive  to  a  neighboring  forestt 
and  loaded  with  wood,  which  he  sold  in  the  town,  earning 
thereby  a  hard  maintenance  for  his  family. 

One  day  when  Ali  Baba  was  in  the  forest,  and  had  just  cut 
wood  enough  to  load  his  asses,  \he  saw  at  a  distance  a  cloud  of 
dust,  which  seemed  to  approach  towards  him.  He  observed  it 
attentively,  and  distinguished  a  large  body  of  horsemen.  As 
'  they  drew  near  he  began  to  apprehend  they  might  be  thieves ; 
he  therefore  climbed  a  tree,  from  whence  he  could  see  all  that 
passed,  without  being  discovered. 

The  troop  came  directly  to  the  spot  where  Ali  Baba  had 
taken  shelter.  He  co  anted  forty  of  them ;[  who  dismounting, 
gave  them  provender,  then  taking  off  their  portmanteaus,  they 
arranged  themselves  under  the  conduct  of  one  who  seemed  to 
foe  their  commander.  They  were  in  fact  a  gang  of  banditti 
wLo  made  that  place  their  rendezvous.  The  captain,  ;nwer» 


358  ARABIAN    NIGH1S 

ing  among  the  shrubs,  said,  "  Sesame  (which  is  a  kind  D! 
corn),  open ! n  Immediately  a  door  opened  in  an  adjoining 
rock  —  when  the  captain  and  his  troop  went  in,  and  the  dool 
shut  again. 

The  thieves  staid  some  time  within  the  rock ;  and  All  Baba, 
who  feared  he  should  be  surprised,  if  he  attempted  to  escape, 
eat  very  patiently  in  the  tree  till  they  came  out  again.  The 
captain  came  out  first,  and  stood  at  the  door  till  they  had  all 
passed  him,  when  he  said,  "  Shut,  Sesame !  "  The  door  closed 
immediately.  Every  man  then  mounted  his  horse ;  and  the 
captain  putting  himself  at  their  head,  they  rode  off  together. 

Ali  Baba  staid  in  the  tree  as  long  as  he  could  see  the  least 
trace  of  the  dust  they  raised.  He  then  descended,  and  pres- 
ently found  out  the  door,  and,  remembering  the  words  the 
captain  had  used,  he  said,  "  Open,  Sesame ! "  when  the  door 
flew  wide  open.  He  entered  the  cavern,  which  he  found  spa- 
cious, and  well  lighted  from  the  top  of  the  rock.  ^The  door 
shut  after  him ;  but  as  he  knew  how  to  open  it,  he  was  no  ways 
alarmed.  He  found  in  the  cavern  a  great  store  of  rich  irer- 
chandize,  and  such  an  immense  quantity  of  gold  and  silver, 
as  convinced  him  that  the  cavern  must  have  been  the  reposi- 
U>ry  of  robbers  for  several  generations. 

He  removed  as  many  bags  of  gold  close  to  the  door,  as  he 
thought  his  three  asses  could  carry ;  then  pronouncing  the  spell, 
tfie  door  opened,  and  he  loaded  them  —  covering  his  treasure 
with  a  few  green  boughs.  When  he  got  home^he  drove  hia 
asses  into  a  little  yard,  and,  removing  the  boughs/  he  carried 
the  bags  into  his  house. 

When  Ali  Baba's  wife  found  the  bags  were  full  of  money,, 
§he  was  alarmed,  —  fearing  lest  their  poverty  should  have 
betrayed  him  to  rob  somebody.  He  pacified  her,  by  relating 
4he  story  of  his  good  fortune.  /  He  then  emptied  the  bags  on 
he  floor,  which  raised  such  a  heap  of"  gold  as  delighted  her. 
Ali  Baba  charged  her  to  be  prudent  and  secret.  He  resolved 
to  bury  most  of  his  treasure,  and  to  emerge  from  his  apparent 
poverty  by  degrees ;  but  his  wife  disappointed  his  pruden/ 


ENTERlAjNMENTS.  35$ 

purpose.  In  the  playfulness  of  her  fancy,  she  would  count 
the  gold ;  but  finding  that  business  likely  to  be  very  tedioua, 
resolved  to  measure  it.  She  went,  therefore,  to  Cassim's  house, 
who  lived  just  by,  to  borrow  a  small  measure. 

Cassim's  wife  was  curious  to  know  what  sort  of  corn  Ali 
3aba  had  got.  She  went  to  another  room  to  fetch  the  measure, 
and  before  she  brought  it  to  her,  she  rubbed  the  bottom  all 
over  with  suet.  Ali  Baba's  wife  went  home,  and  filled  the 
msasure  so  often  with  the  gold,  that  she  was  very  much  pleased 
irlth  the  amount^/  When  she  had  done  she  carried  back  the 
measure,  and  delivered  it  to  the  wife  of  Cassim,  without  ob- 
serving a  piece  of  gold  which  stuck  on  the  bottom  of  it. 

When  Cassim's  wife  saw  the  piece  of  gold,  her  heart  sunk 
within  her.  /  "  What ! "  exclaimed  she,  "  has  Ali  Baba  money 
so  plenty  as  to  measure  it  ?  he  whom  we  have  always  despised 
for  his  poverty !  how  has  he  obtained  his  wealth  ?  will  he  not 
now  retort  our  contempt,  and  out-figure  us  ?  "  She  tormented 
lerself  with  these  reflections"]  till  her  husband  came  home,  to 
whom  she  related  the  story^  and  produced  the^measure  with 
the  piece  of  gold. 

/Cassim  joined  his  wife,  in  her  narrow  and  envious  ideas. 
Instead  of  rejoicing  at  his  brother's  change  of  fortune,  he  'now 
as  unjustly  hated .  Jiim,  as  he  had  before  cruelly  neglected  and 
despised  him.  -After  passing  the  night  in  that  uneasiness 
which  base  passions  ever  excite,  he  arose  early  in  the  morning, 
arid  went  to  Ali  Baba :  "  Brother,"  said  he,  "  you  are  very 
reserved  in  your  affairs.  You  pretend  to  be  miserably  poor, 
yet  have  gold  in  such  abundance  that  you  measure  it ! "  He 
then  showed  him  the  piece  of  gold  sticking  at  the  bottom  of 
the  measure. 

Ali  Baba  saw  it  was  impossible  to  keep  his  secret  from  his 
brother ;  he  therefore  frankly  related  his  adventure  to  him, 
and  offered  him  half  the  gold  to  conceal  it.  "  No ! "  replied 
Cassim,  haughtily,  "  I  will  know  where  this  treasure  is,  and 
the  means  of  coming  at  it,  that  I  nay  go  tc  it  when  I  please , 
if  you  do  not  agree  to  this,  I  will  i  /Vm  the  magistrate  of  thf 


860  AKABIAN     NIGHTS' 

affair ,  when  you  will  be  well  off,  if  you  escape  w.lth  tl  e  losi 
of  jour  newly  gotten  wealth."  AH  Baba  knew  this  would  be 
the  case  if  Cassim  informed  against  him:*  he  therefore  com- 
plied without  murmuring ;  described  the  spot  to  his  brother 
very  exactly,  and  told  him  the  words  he  must  use  to  gain  ad- 
mission. 

Cassim  having  obtained  this  information,  prepared  to  avail1 
himself  of  it  with  great  diligence.  He  purchased  ten  mules, 
and  had  large  panniers  made  to  fit  them  exactly  ;  and  the  next 
morning  he  set  off  before  daybreak,  resolving  to  be  beforehand 
with  his  brother,  and  to  secure  all  the  treasure  to  himself.  He 
readily  found  the  rock  and  the  door ;  and  when  he  had  pro- 
nounced the  words,  "  Open,  Sesame,"  the  door  flew  open,  and 
he  entered  the  cavern.  He  was  agreeably  surprised  to  find 
the  riches  in  it  exceed  his  most  sanguine  expectation.  He 
spent  some  time  in  feasting  his  eyes  with  the  treasure ;  after 
which  he  removed  as  many  bags  of  gold  to  the  door  as  he 
thought  his  mules  could  carry,  and  regretted  that  he  had  not 
brought  a  larger  number ;  but  when  he  wished  to  open  the 
cavern,  his  thoughts  were  so  full  of  the  great  riches  he  should 
possess,  that  he  could  not  recollect  the  necessary  word.  In- 
stead of  Sesame,  he  said,  "Open,  Barley,"  and  was  much 
alarmed  to  find  the  door  continue  shut.  He  named  several 
other  sorts  of  grain,  to  as  little  purpose.  He  walked  about  the 
cave  several  hours  with  all  the  horrors  of  approaching  death, 
which  he  knew  must  befal  him,  if  the  thieves  found  him  there. 
Regardless  of  the  treasure  that  surrounded  him,  he  passed  his 
time  in  lamenting  his  unjust  treatment  of  his  brother,  and  in 
fruitless  attempts  to  call  to  mind  the  fatal  word,  which  the 
more  he  tried  to  remember,  was  the  more  absent  from  hia 
recollection. 

At  length  the  thieves  arrived,  and  seeing  Cassim's  mule& 
itraggiing  about,  they  were  alarmed.  While  some  of  them 
searched  the  rock,  others,  with  the  captain  at  their  head,  drew 
their  sabres,  went  directly  to  the  door,  and  speaking  the  propel 
d,  it  opened.  Cassim,  who  heard  the  trampling  of  th€ 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  361 

,  never  doubted  of  the  coming  of  the  thieves,  or  of  hi* 
own  certain  destruction.     He  resolved  to  make  one  effort  to 
escape.     He  stood  ready  at  the  door,  and  no  sooner  heard  the 
j    word  Sesame,  than  he  sprang  out  briskly,  and  threw  the  cap- 

itain  down ;  but  the  other  thieves  with  their  sabres  presently 
despatched  him. 

When  they  entered  the  cave  they  found  all  the  bags  whidi 
Cassim  had  brought  to  the  door  to  load  his  mules  with.  They 
easily  judged  that  when  he  was  in,  he  could  not  get  out  again ; 
but  they  could  not  conceive  how  it  was  possible  for  him  to  get 
there  at  all.  They  agreed  to  cut  the  body  into  quarters  and 
hang  them  up  within  the  door  of  the  cave,  to  terrify  any  other 
person  from  a  like  attempt.  Having  settled  this  and  their  other 
affairs,  they  again  took  horse,  and  rode  in  pursuit  of  booty  as 
usual. 

In  the  meantime,  Cassim's  wife  became  very  uneasy  at  hia 
absence.  She  passed  the  night  in  the  utmost  distress,  condem- 
ning her  own  impertinent  curiosity,  and  dreading  the  evils 
which  her  heart  foreboded  had  befallen  her  husband. 

As  soon  as  it  was  light  she  went  to  Ali  Baba.  Her  haughty 
spirit  was  now  subdued  by  grief  and  fear.  She  told  him  in 
tears,  that  Cassim  had  set  out  for  the  cavern  early  the  preced- 
ing morning,  and  was  not  yet  returned  ;  she  therefore  besought 
his  advice  and  assistance.  Ali  Baba  readily  gave  her  both. 
He  requested  her  to  compose  herself,  and  to  keep  the  whole 
affair  a  profound  secret ;  and  he  set  off  immediately  for  the 
cavern  to  seek  for  his  brother. 

As  he  drew  near  the  rock,  he  was  much  shocked  to  see  blood 
ipilt  at  the  door.  When  he  had  pronounced  the  words,  and 
(he  cavern  became  open,  he  was  still  more  affected  at  seeing 
(Le  quarters  of  Cassim  hung  up  on  each  side.  Ali  Baba 
determined  to  pay  him  the  last  duties,  notwithstanding  his  un- 
brotherly  behavior.  He  wrapped  up  the  quarters  in  some  fine 
stuffs  which  he  found  in  the  cave,  and  loaded  one  of  his  asses 
with  them ;  but  put  upon  the  other  two  as  many  bags  of  gold 
ms  they  could  carry ;  and  having  covered  '.he  whcle  with  woodf 

31 


B62  ARABIAN 

he  entered  the  town  in  the  evening,  JIXKC  the  t\vo  assta  li*defi 
with  gold  Jito  his  own  little  yard,  and  led  the  other  X)  the 
bouse  of  his  late  brother. 

Cassim  had  a  young  slave  named  Morgiana,  who  was  re 
markable  for  her  abilities.  Quick,  artful,  and  much  attached 
to  her  master  and  mistress,  she  had  on  many  occasions  disco v- 
ered  great  talents  and  fidelity.  To  this  slave,  Ali  Baba  first 
related  the  catastrophe  which  had  befallen  her  master,  and 
leaving  the  body  to  her  disposal,  he  went  into  the  house  to 
condole  with  his  sister-in-la^v. 

Cassim's  wife  saw  by  Lls  oouatenance  that  he  brought  fatal 
tidings.  Having  first  adjured  her  to  hear  him  in  silence,  ha 
then  told  her  everything  that  had  happened.  When  she  had 
indulged  her  grief  for  some  t  me,  he  proposed  to  her  that  she 
should  become  his  wife.  "  I  have  now,"  said  he,  "  sufficient 
wealth  for  us  all :  my  wife  has  a  regard  for  you,  and  I  am  sure 
will  not  be  jealous ;  and  you  can  no  way  dispose  of  yourself 
more  to  your  comfort."  The  wido^v  let  him  see  that  she  waa 
not  averse  to  this  proposal.  He  then  took  his  leave  and  re- 
turned home. 

Morgiana,  meanwhile,  went  to  a  dealer  in  medicines  and 
bought  an  essence  usually  given  in  cases  cf  great  extremity ; 
and  being  asked  who  it  was  for,  replied,  weeping,  "  it  was  for 
her  dear  master,  who  had  been  suddenly  taken  ill,  and  they 
had  scarce  any  hopes  of  his  recovery."  Having  thus  sent 
abroad  the  news  of  Cassim's  being  dangerously  ill,  she  pre- 
pared the  next  morning  to  bury  him. 

There  was  an  old  cobbler  in  another  part  of  the  town,  who 
was  remarkable  for  opening  his  stall  every  morning  before 
daybreak.  To  him  Morgiana  went  at  that  time,  and  putting  a 
piece  of  gold  in  his  hand,  bade  him  take  his  sf  wing  tackle,  and 
follow  her.  Mustapha  (which  was  his  name)  was  a  merry  old 
He. low  ;  and  finding  he  was  so  well  paid  beforehand,  he  jumped 
up  to  go  with  her,  saying  several  very  pleasant  things  on  tin 
occasion. 

When  they  had  proceeded  a  little  way,  Morgiana  told  hinc  a 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  ^61 

was  necessary  to  blind-fold  him.  The  cobbler  objected  to  this, 
*  I  was  afraid,"  said  he,  "  your  pay  was  too  good  to  be  earned 
easily.  You  wj\nt  me  to  do  something  against  my  conscience 
and  honor."  "  God  forbid,"  replied  Morgiana,  putting  another 
piece  of  gold  into  his  hand ;  "  come  along  with  me,  and  fear 
nothing." 

The  other  piece  of  gold  set  everything  to  rights  with  the 
cobbler's  honor.  He  submitted  to  be  blindfolded ;  in  whiuh 
situation  he  was  led  to  the  room  where  Cassim's  body  fey. 
u  Sew  me  these  quarters  together  quickly,"  said  Morgiana, 
k<  and  I  have  another  piece  of  gold  in  store  for  you."  Musta- 
pha  obeyed,  and  having  done  the  business,  was  conducted  back 
by  Morgiana  in  the  same  manner  he  came,  before  any  of  the 
inhabitants  of  the  town  were  stirring. 

The  body  was  then  put  into  a  coffin,  and  when  the  people  of 
the  mosque,  whose  business  it  is  to  wash  the  dead,  offered  to 
perform  their  duty,  they  were  told  it  was  already  done.  Every 
thing  passed  without  the  least  suspicion.  In  a  few  days  All 
Baba  removed  his  goods  to  the  house  of  his  brother's  widow, 
taking  care  to  convey  the  gold  thither  by  night :  and  his  mar- 
riage with  his  sister  (which  is  common  in  our  religion)  was 
made  public. 

While  this  was  passing  in  the  town,  the  thieves  had  return- 
ed to  their  cavern,  and  found  that  Cassim's  body  and  some  01 
their  gold  had  been  taken  away.  "  It  is  plain,"  said  the  cap- 
tain to  his  companions,  "  that  we  are  discovered ;  and  that  our 
secret  is  known  to  another  besides  him  we  put  to  death.  Wa 
must  lay  aside  every  enterprise  to  detect  this  intruder;  we 
must  risk  every  danger  to  effect  it ;  or  our  riches,  the  reward 
of  so  many  gallant  excursions,  will  be  insensibly  pilfered  from 
us, 

The  thieves  agreed  to  this  proposal.  "  I  expected  no  less," 
said  the  captain,  "  from  your  courage  and  bravery ;  nor  do  I 
fear,  but  by  judicious  management,  we  shall  cut  off  our  enemy 
l»efore  he  has  revealed  our  secret  to  any  other  person,  which 
he  will  scarcely  do  soon.  Let  one  of  us  disguise  himself  as  a 


064  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

traveller,  and  go  into  the  town.  He  must  try  if  he  can  heai 
of  any  one  having  been  cruelly  murdered.  If  he  succeed^ 
let  him  find  out  the  house  where  it  happened,  and  then  return 
to  us.  But  more  to  insure  wariness  than  to  guard  against 
treachery,  let  us  agree  that  whoever  goes,  if  he  brings  us  a 
false  or  imperfect  report,  he  shall  pay  for  his  inattention  with 
his  head." 

Without  waiting  for  the  suffrages  of  his  companions,  one  of 
the  party  started  up,  and  said,  "  I  submit  myself  to  this  law, 
and  think  it  an  honor  to  expose  my  life  by  taking  such  a 
commission  upon  me.  Only  remember,  that  if  I  do  not  suc- 
ceed, that  I  neither  wanted  courage  nor  good-will  to  serve  my 
troop." 

The  brave  fellow  received  the  thanks  and  applause  of  the 
captain  and  his  comrades.  Next  morning  he  entered  the  town 
by  break  of  day,  and  coming  to  Mustapha's  stall,  who  was  at 
work,  the  robber  entered  into  conversation  with  him,  and  ob- 
served he  must  have  good  eyes  to  see  to  work  so  early.  "  Good 
eyes,"  replied  Mustapha,  testily,  "  yes,  yes ;  my  eyes  are  good 
enough,  I  assure  you.  It  was  but  very  lately  I  sewed  a  dead 
body  together,  which  had  been  cut  in  quarters,  in  a  place 
where  I  had  less  light  than  I  have  here." 

The  robber  was  overjoyed  to  find  he  was  so  soon  likely  to 
succeed  in  his  inquiry.  He  asked  Mustapha  many  questions, 
and  at  last  putting  a  piece  of  gold  into  the  old  man's  hand,  he 
requested  he  would  earn  that  by  showing  him  the  house  where 
be  pei-formed  the  task  he  had  mentioned. 

The  cobbler  accepted  the  gold,  but  said,  "  I  cannot  show 
fO'*i  the  house,  as  I  was  conducted  to  it  blindfold."  "  Well," 
replied  the  robber,  "  let  me  blind  your  eyes,  and  do  you  pro- 
ceed as  nearly  as  you  can  in  the  same  direction,  and  as  every 
one  ought  to  be  paid,  if  you  will  gratify  me,  I  will  give  you 
-mother  piece  of  gold." 

Mustapha  wanted  no  further  entreaty.  He  let  the  robber 
blind  him  at  the  end  of  the  street,  and  went  on  till  he  came  tc 
\ht)  door  of  Cassiin's  house,  where  Ali  Baba  now  liv^d.  Whet 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  8 

Hopping,  he  said,  "  I  think  I  went  no  further  than  here."     Tha  . 
robber,  before  he  pulled  off  the  bandage,  marked  the  door  arith 
a  piece  of  chalk;  after  which  he  dismissed  Mustapha,  and 
prepared  to  make  a  private  inquiry  after  the  owner  of  the 
habitation. 

He  learned  that  the  late  possessor  died  suddenly,  and  that 
/Lli  Baba,  who  a  very  little  before  was  miserably  poor,  had 
married  the  widow,  and  was  become  wealthy ;  but  not  by  this 
marriage,  as  he  had  given  Cassim's  son  all  his  father's  prop 
erty.  From  these  circumstances  the  robber  was  at  no  loss  to 
conclude  that  Cassim  was  the  person  they  had  slain,  and  that 
Ali  Baba  was  the  other  possessor  of  their  secret.  He  return 
ed  to  his  companions  with  exultation ;  he  related  to  them  his 
good  fortune,  and  they,  with  many  praises,  congratulated  hun 
and  each  other. 

In  the  evening,  the  captain  and  the  spy  set  forward  for  the 
town.  The  whole  troop  followed  in  separate  parties  well  armed, 
tnd  met  in  the  great  square,  to  act  as  their  leader  should  direct ; 
but  when  the  two  former  came  to  the  street  where  Ali  Baba 
lived,  the  robber  could  not  distinguish  the  house ;  for  Mor- 
gana, having  taken  notice  of  the  mark  on  her  master's  door, 
thought  it  had  a  particular  appearance ;  she  therefore  took  a 
piece  of  chalk,  and  marked  the  doors  of  all  their  neighbors 
BO  exactly  like  it,  that  it  was  impossible  to  distinguish  one 
from  another.  The  design  being  thus  rendered  abortive,  the 
thieves  returned  to  the  cavern,  where  their  unfortunate  com- 
rade, being  condemned  by  their  unanimous  suffrages,  was  put 
to  death. 

But  as  so  much  light  had  been  obtained  by  the  first  adven- 
ture, and  as  the  cutting  off  of  their  enemy  was  of  so  much 
concern  to  them  all,  another  of  the  troop,  flattering  himself 
he  should  succeed  better,  undertook  the  dangerous  business. 
By  renewing  the  inquiry,  he  easily  found  out  the  house,  which 
ke  marked  with  red  chalk  in  a  part  remote  from  sight,  and 
returned  with  confidence  to  his  companions.  Nothing  escaped 
the  watchfulness  of  Morgiana.  The  fora.er  affair  had  alarmed 

31* 


fr66  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

her ;  and  when  she  saw  the  red  mark,  she  repeated  the  forme! 
caution,  and  marked  every  house  in  the  street  in  the  same 
manner.  The  second  spy,  therefore,  was  as  unsuccessful  aa 
the  first.  The  troop,  once  more  disappointed,  returned  to  their 
cavern,  and  put  their  other  comrade  to  death,  agreeable  to 
the  law  they  had  all  consented  to. 

The  captain,  grieved  for  the  loss  of  his  two  gallant  oom- 
pan  ions,  resolved  to  undertake  the  affair  himself. 

Having  found  out  Ali  Baba's  house,  he  did  not  fix  any  mark 
upon  it,  but  took  so  much  notice  of  it,  that  it  was  impossible 
he  could  mistake  it.  He  then  returned  to  his  companions, 
and  laid  before  them  a  scheme  to  cut. off  their  adversary  with- 
out noise  or  danger. 

The  troop  approved  their  captain's  proposal.  They  provid- 
ed many  large  jars,  some  of  which  they  filled  with  oil ;  and 
having  bought  stout  mules  in  the  adjoining  villages,  the  captain 
put  his  troop  into  the  other  jars,  and  placing  them  on  panniers 
on  the  backs  of  the  mules,  drove  them,  towards  evening,  into 
the  town. 

Going  immediately  to  Ali  Baba's  house,  he  found  him  sit- 
ting at  the  door,  enjoying  the  cool  of  the  evening.  The  pre- 
tended oil  merchant  requested  Ali  Baba  that  he  would  receive 
him  for  that  night,  as  he  was  a  stranger,  and  knew  not  where 
to  go.  His  request  was  readily  granted.  The  servants  un- 
loaded the  mules,  and  took  care  of  them ;  and  Ali  Baba  re- 
ceived his  treacherous  guest  with  the  hospitality  becoming  a 
good  Mussulman. 

Before  they  retired  to  rest,  Ali  Baba  told  Morgiana  that  he 
would  bathe  early  in  the  morning,  and  directed  her  to  have 
his  bathing  clothes  and  some  broth  ready.  This  obliged  her 
to  sit  up  after  her  master  and  his  guest  had  retired ;  and  the 
latter,  hearing  it,  resolved  to  lay  down  in  his  clothes,  and  not 
give  the  signal  while  Morgiana  was  stirring,  for  fear  ot  a 
disappointment. 

It  happened,  while  she  was  busy,  that  hex  lamp  grew  dull; 
and  having  no  oil  in  the  house,  she  recollected  the  jars  in  tht 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  36) 


yard,  from  whence  she  resolved  to  supply  herself.  Up. 
ing  the  first  she  came  to,  the  thief  within  said,  softly,  "  Is  it 
time?"  to  which  Morgiana,  with  admirable  presence  of  minu, 
replied,  "  Not  yet  ;  but  presently  !  "  She  then  examined  all 
the  jars,  and  found  there  were  in  them  seven  and  thirty  armed 
men.  a  few  jars  only  being  filled  with  oil. 

Morgiana  soon  concluded  who  these  men  were.  She  hastily 
called  up  another  slave,  named  Abdallah,  and  bringing  several 
jars  of  oil  into  the  kitchen,  they  heated  a  part  of  it  boiling 
hot.  This  she  poured  into  one  of  the  jars,  by  that  means 
killing  the  thief  that  was  concealed  in  it.  She  did  so  till  she 
had  destroyed  all  the  seven  and  thirty  thieves,  when  she  put 
out  her  fire  and  went  to  bed. 

The  captain  had  waited  with  great  impatience  for  her  doing 
so.  As  soon  as  all  was  quiet,  he  went  to  his  window,  and 
threw  stones  at  the  jars,  which  was  the  signal  agreed  on  Ibi 
his  companions  to  release  themselves.  Finding  none  of  them 
stir,  he  began  to  be  uneasy  ;  and  repeated  -the  signal  two  01 
three  times.  He  then  became  impatient  and  alarmed;  an<i 
hastening  down  to  the  jars,  he  opened  one  of  them.  The  steam 
of  the  boiling  oil  soon  informed  him  of  the  fate  of  his  friends. 
He  had  the  resolution  to  open  every  jar  in  hopes  that  some  of 
them  might  have  escaped,  but  in  vain.  They  were  all  dead. 
The  captain  was  so  enraged  at  the  failure  of  his  design,  and 
at  the  loss  of  so  many  brave  fellows,  that  he  would  certainly 
have  sacrificed  his  own  life,  in  a  public  attack  on  Ali  Baba, 
had  not  some  hopes  of  more  complete  vengeance  darted  into 
his  mind,  and  encouraged  him  to  make  his  escape. 

In  the  morning,  Morgiana,  acquainted  her  master  with  what 
had  happened.  Ali  Baba,  grateful  for  such  important  services, 
gave  her  hex  freedom,  and  a  large  sum  of  money  ;  but  she  was 
so  much  attached  to  the  family,  that  she  continued  to  live  with 
them,  and  superintend  the  other  slaves  in  their  business. 

The  captain  of  the  thieves  returned  to  the  forest  in  a  trans- 
jK)rt  of  rage  and  despair.  When  he  arrived  at  the  cavern, 
tha  loneliness  of  the  place  seemed  frightful  to  him.  "  Where 


368  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

«tj  you,  my  I  rave  lads?"  cried  he,  "my  old  companions t 
how  unhappy  to  lose  you  by  a  fate  so  base!  had  you  died 
with  your  sabres  in  your  hands,  1  should  not  have  been  incon 
solable.  Where  shall  I  get  so  gallant  a  troop  again  ?  but  nrsi 
let  me  sacrifice  the  wretch  to  whom  I  owe  this  fatal  misfor- 
tune." He  then  endeavored  to  compose  his  mind,  that  he 
might  the  more  safely  and  effectually  execute  his  revenge  :\D 
Ali  Baba. 

The  captain  suffered  several  weeks  to  pass  by  before  be  set 
ebout  the  scheme  he  had  planned  for  the  destruction  ot  hi» 
enemy.  By  this  means  he  hoped  Ali  Baba's  vengeance  would 
relax,  and  he  himself  should  be  more  cool  in  his  measures. 
He  passed  much  of  his  time  in  the  town,  where  he  learned 
that  Cassim's  son,  now  adopted  by  Ah'  Baba,  had  a  very  con- 
siderable shop. 

He  also  took  a  shop,  which  he  plentifully  supplied  from  the 
cavern  with  all  sorts  of  rich  stuffs.  He  appeared  as  a  mer- 
chant, and  having  a  large  assortment  of  valuable  goods,  was 
treated  by  e  very-body  with  respect.  Young  Cassim  was  among 
those  who  sought  the  regard  of  the  new  merchant,  and  soon 
became  his  declared  favorite.  He  loaded  the  young  man  with 
civilities,  often  made  him  small  presents,  and  invited  him  con 
tinually  to  dine  and  sup  with  him. 

As  young  Cassim  did  not  keep  house,  he  had  no  op  port  u« 
oity  to  return  these  obligations.  He  therefore  introduced  the 
stranger  to  Ali  Baba,  who  received  him  very  cordially.  When 
evening  drew  on,  the  cap  tarn  appeared  desirous  to  take  his 
leave ;  but  his  host,  who  was  much  taken  with  his  pleasant 
manner,  pressed  him  to  stay  to  supper.  After  some  excuses, 
the  pretended  merchant  said,  "  I  would  accept  your  friendly 
invitation,  but  I  eat  no  salt  in  any  of  my  food."  "  Well." 
replied  Ali  Baba,  "  we  will  have  the  supper  drest  without  any." 

When  Morgiana  received  this  direction,  she  was  much  iis- 
satisfied.  "  Who  is  this  difficult  man,"  said  she,  "  that  eats  no 
salt  ? "  "  Be  not  displeased  with  him  for  that/  replied  Ali 
liaba ;  "  he  is  my  son's  friend  and  an  honest  man." 


6NTERTAINMENTS.  8$* 

Though  Morgiana  obeyed  her  master,  and  sent  up  suppe* 
AS  he  desired,  she  was  still  uneasy  at  the  request  his  ne^ 
guest  had  made ;  she  therefore  carried  in  one  of  the  dishes 
herself  on  purpose  to  look  at  him.  The  moment,  she  entered 
the  room  she  knew  him,  notwithstanding  his  disguise,  and 
examining  him  pretty  closely,  she  saw  a  dagger  under  his 
garment.  "  I  am  not  surprised,"  thought  she,  "  that  this  wretch* 
who  is  my  master's  greatest  enemy,  will  e*t  no  salt  with  hiia 
since  he  intends  to  assassinate  him ;  but  1  will  prevent  him." 

Accordingly,  as  soon  as  supper  was  removed,  she  entered 
the  room  dressed  like  a  dancer,  with  a  silver  girdle,  to  which 
l.ung  a  poignard  of  the  same  metal.  She  played  on  a  tabor, 
and  danced  several  dances  with  great  spirit.  At  length,  draw- 
ing the  poignard,  she  pointed  with  it  to  a  little  chink  in  the 
side  of  the  tabor,  where  spectators  generally  give  their  gratuity 
to  those  who  dance  for  a  livelihood ;  and  going  to  Ali  Baba, 
he  put  in  a  piece  of  gold,  as  did  also  his  son.  She  then  drew 
near  the  visitor,  and  while  he  was  putting  his  hand  in  hia 
purse,  she  plunged  the  poignard  into  his  bosom. 

Ali  Baba  and  his  son  cried  out  against  her  for  this  violent 
act ;  but  she  soon  called  to  their  recollection  the  pretended 
oil  merchant,  and  showed  the  arms  he  had  concealed.  The 
unfortunate  robber  confirmed  her  testimony,  by  lamenting, 
before  he  expired,  amidst  his  execrations  and  despair,  that  he 
was  the  last  of  the  forty  thieves  to  whom  the  cavern  hau 
belonged. 

Ali  Baba  received,  with  due  gratitude,  this  further  instance 
of  Morgiana's  attachment;  and  Cassimr\was  so  pleased  with 
her  spirit  and  good  sense,  that  he  took  her  to  wife.  The 
whole  treasure  in  the  cavern,  became  now  safely  the  property 
of  Ali  Baba.  He  taught  his  son  the  secret,  which  he  handed 
down  to  posterity ;  and  using  this  good  fortune  with  modeia- 
lion,  they  lived  in  great  honor,  serving  the  chief  o  fices  of  tht 
rity. 


3^0  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

Ttte  Sto"y  of  All  Cogia,  Merchant  of  Bagdad. 

'THERE  Jved  at  Bagdad  a  reputable  merchant,  named  All 
'.Jogia,  of  a  moderate  fortune;  contented  with  his  situation, 
and  therefore  happy. 

It  happened  that  for  three  »ight?  following  he  dreamt  that 
a  venerable  old  man  came  «*>  him,  and  with  a  severe  look, 
reprimanded  him  for  not  having  made  a  pilgrimage  to  Mecca. 
Ali  Cogia  knewj  that,  as  a  good  Mussulman,  it  was  his  duty 
to  undertake  such  a  pilgrimage,  but  he  had  contented  himself 
with  determining  to  set  about  it  on  some  distant  day :  when 
that  day  came,  he  was  never  without  an  excuse  to  postpone 
his  journey,  and  renew  his  resolution. 

These  dreams  awakened  his  conscience.  He  converted  his 
substance  into  cash  ;  half  of  which  he  laid  out  in  merchandize, 
to  traffic  with  as  he  journeyed.  The  other  half  he  deposited 
in  a  jar  which  he  filled  with  olives,  and  requested  a  friend  of 
his  to  suffer  it  to  remain  in  his  warehouse  till  the  caravan 
should  return  from  Mecca.  He  mentioned  it  as  a  jar  of  olives 
only,  without  saying  a  word  of  the  money  at  the  bottom  of  it. 
Noureddin,  which  was  the  name  of  his  friend,  very  obligingly 
gave  him  the  key  of  his  warehouse,  and  desired  him  to  set  his 
jar  where  he  pleased,  promising  it  should  remain  untouched, 
till  his  return. 

When  the  caravan  was  ready,  Ali  Cogia  set  out  for  Mecca, 
where  he  performed  very  exactly  all  those  ceremonies  which 
are  observed  at  that  holy  place.  The  duties  of  his  pilgrimage 
being  completed,  he  went  to  Cairo,  and  from  thence  to  Damas- 
cus, trading  all  the  way  to  considerable  advantage.  Having  a 
great  desire  to  see  the  world,  he  went  to  other  celebrated  cities, 
caking  Jerusalem  in  his  way,  that  he  might  view  the  temple, 
which  is  looked  upon  by  all  Mussulmen,  to  be  the  most  holy, 
ilter  that  of  Mecca.  In  short,  he  took  so  long  a  journey,  that 
jeven  years  elapsed  before  he  returned  to  Bagdad. 

All  this  time  the  jar  of  olives  stood  undisturbed  in  Noured- 
Un's  warehouse.  But  it  so  fell  out,  a  few  days  before  Ali 


BNTKRTAINM17  NTS.  37  * 

Cogia  came  home,  that  the  wife  of  Noureddin  chanced  to  wish 
for  some  olives.  This  brought  to  his  mind  the  jar  his  friend 
had  left  with  him  so  long  ago.  He  determined  to  open  and 
esamine  them.  His  wife  in  vain  represented  to  him  how  base 
and  dishonorable  it  was  to  meddle  with  anything  left  in  his 
hands  as  a  trust.  Noureddin  was  obstinate ;  he  opened  the 
jai ,  and  found  all  the  olives  at  the  top  were  mouldy.  Hoping 
to  find  them  better  at  the  bottom,  he  emptied  them  all  out,  and 
with  them  turned  out  the  bag  of  gold  which  Ali  Cogia  had 
deposited  there. 

Noureddin  was  a  man  whose  general  conduct  was  specious 
He  was  exceedingly  careful  to  preserve  his  reputation.  But 
in  his  heart  he  was  a  slave  to  avarice ;  and  like  all  other  very 
covetous  men.  he  was  as  honest  as  his  interest  obliged  him  to 
be.  At  the  sight  of  so  much  money,  he  determined  to  seize 
it,  and  finding  it  impossible  to  replace  the  olives  so  as  to  ap- 
pear as  they  were  before,  he  opened  the  jar,  threw  them 
away,  and  filled  it  with  new  ones. 

When  Ali  Cogia  arrived,  his  first  care  was  to  visit  Noured- 
Jin.  This  traitor  affected  great  joy  to  see  him  again  after  so 
long  an  absence  ;  and  of  his  own  accord  offered  him  the  key 
of  his  warehouse  to  fetch  his  jar. 

When  Ali  Cogia  had  conveyed  the  jar  home  and  turned  it 
out,  he  was  surprised  to  see  that  his  gold  had  been  taken  away. 
He  returned  to  Noureddin,  and  endeavored,  by  friendly  rea- 
soning, to  prevail  with  him  to  do  justice.  The  base  merchant 
was  callous  to  every  consideration  of  that  kind.  He  concluded 
that  as  Ali  Cogia  could  produce  no  proof  of  his  having  lodged 
treasure  in  the  jar,  his  own  general  fair  character  would  bear 
'iim  out  against  one  who  had  been  absent  so  long,  that  he  was 
Umost  unknown  in  his  native  city.  Nor  was  he  mistaken. 
The  cady,  hearing  Ali  Cogia's  complaint,  called  upon  Noured- 
lin  for  his  defence;  who  said,  ";t  is  true  that  Ali  Cogia,  sev- 
rtn  years  ago,  at  his  own  request,  left  a  jar  in  my  warehouse, 
*Thich  he  told  me  was  filled  with  olives.  I  never  saw  the  jar- 
He  carried  it  thither  himself,  left  it  where  he  pleased,  and 


872  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

found  it  in  the  same  place,  covered  as  he  left  it.  He  did  no\ 
place  it  in  my  care  as  a  treasure.  He  has  no  witness  to  oiovc 
that  he  put  a  treasure  in  it.  Might  he  not  as  well  h?ve  de- 
manded a  jar  of  diamonds  ?  in  short,  I  declare  that  I  nevei 
had  this  money,  or  even  knew  there  was  any  in  the  jar ;  this 
I  am  ready  to  declare  on  my  oath."  The  cady,  finding  Ali 
Cogia  could  bring  no  testimony  to  confirm  his  bare  assertion, 
determined  the  affair  by  a  short  process  ;  and  admitting  Nou- 
reddin to  justify  himself  on  oath,  dismissed  the  complaint. 
The  sufferer  did  not  so  easily  put  up  with  his  loss.  He  ap- 
pealed to  the  caliph,  and  a  day  was  fixed  for  the  hearing  hi 
the  divan,  Noureddin  being  duly  summoned  to  attend. 

The  evening  before  the  cause  was  to  come  on,  the  caliph 
and  his  vizier  were  walking  in  disguise  about  the  city ;  when 
they  met  with  a  group  of  children,  and  heard  one  of  them  say, 
u  Come,  let  us  play  at  the  cady.  I  will  be  the  cady :  bring  Ali 
Cogia,  and  the  merchant  who  cheated  him  of  his  gold,  before 
uie."  The  caliph,  being,  reminded  by  these  words  of  the  cause 
which  was  to  come  before  him  next  day,  attended  to  the  mo- 
tions of  the  children. 

The  pretended  cady  took  his  seat.  Presently  one  of  the 
children,  representing  Ali  Cogia,  repeated  his  complaint ;  and 
another,  as  Noureddin,  made  the  same  answer  he  had  done, 
and  offered  to  confirm  his  innocence  by  an  oath.  Another 
boy  was  about  to  administer  the  oath,  but  the  imaginary  cady 
prevented  him,  saying,  "  let  me  see  the  jar  of  olives."  li 
was  supposed  to  be  brought  forward ;  and  each  party  owned  it 
to  be  the  identical  jar  in  dispute.  The  young  cady  then  or- 
dered it  to  be  opened,  and  pretended  to  eat  some  of  the  fruit. 
*•  These  olives,"  said  he,  "  are  excellent ;  I  cannot  think  they 
have  been  kept  for  seven  years.  Send  for  t  couple  of  olive 
merchants." 

Two  other  lads  stood  forward  as  olive  merchants.  The 
pretended  cady  demanded  how  long  olives  would  keep  fit  tc 
eat.  They  answered,  "  That  with  the  utmost  care  they  would 
tose  their  taste  and  color  by  the  third  year."  "  Look,  then,* 


Ex^TERTAINMENTS.  57? 

aaid  the  young  cady,  "  into  that  jar,  and  tell  me  how  old  those 
olives  are." 

The  two  imaginary  merchants  seemed  to  examine  and  taste 
the  olives,  and  reported  them  to  be  new  and  good.  "New I" 
replied  the  judge ;  "  Noureddin  is  ready  to  swear  they  have 
stood  seven  years  in  his  warehouse !  "  —  u  It  is  impossible," 
said  the  young  merchants  ;  "  we  know  better,  and  are  sure 
that  these  olives  are  of  the  present  year's  growth." 

The  imaginary  criminal  would  have  replied,  but  the  young 
cady  would  not  hear  him.  "  You  are  a  rogue,"  said  he,  "  ana 
ought  to  be  hanged."  The  children  put  an  end  to  their  play, 
by  clapping  their  hands  with  a  great  deal  of  joy,  and  seizing 
the  criminal  to  carry  him  to  execution. 

The  caliph  listened  to  what  passed  with  much  attention ; 
and  after  musing  a  few  moments,  he  ordered  his  grand  vizier 
to  find  out  the  boy  who  had  represented  the  magistrate,  and 
bring  him  to  the  divan  next  morning.  He  directed  th*>  cady 
and  two  olive  merchants  to  attend ;  and  sent  orders  to  All 
Cogia,  that  he  should  bring  the  jar  of  olives  with  him. 

When  the  divan  met,  and  all  the  parties  attended,  the  child 
was  presented  to  the  caliph,  who  asked  him  if  it  was  he  who 
determined  the  cause  last  night  at  play,  between  AH  Cogia 
and  Noureddin  ?  the  boy  modestly  answered,  "  it  was  : "  the 
taliph  seeing  the  child  was  awed  by  his  presence,  embraced 
and  commended  him.  u  You  shall  now,  my  dear,"  said  he, 
"  decide  between  the  real  parties :  come,  and  sit  down  by  me." 
Then  turning  to  Ali  Cogia  and  his  adversary,  he  bade  them 
plead  their  cause  before  that  child,  who  should  do  them  both 
justice :  *  If,"  continued  the  caliph,  "  he  should  be  at  a  loss,  ) 
will  assist  him." 

The  attention  of  every  one  present  was  turned,  in  an  extra 
ordinary  degree,  to  this  singular  trial.  Ali  Cogia  and  Nou 
reddin  pleaded  against  each  other  much  in  the  same  man 
ner  as  the  children  had  done  the  evening  before ;  when 
Noureddin  offered  to  take  his  oath,  the  boy  said,  *  it  is  tot 
won  ;  let  us  see  the  jar  of  olives  " 

32 


574  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

An  examination  of  the  quality  and  agr  of  the  fruit  no* 
Uiok  place  ;  everything  which  had  passed  among  the  chil- 
dren, in  their  play,  was  repeated,  seriously,  before  the  calipbu 
in  the  divan.  The  treachery  of  Noureddin  was  apparent, 
when  the  child,  instead  of  ordering  him  to  be  hanged,  looked 
up  to  the  caliph,  and  said,  "  Commander  of  the  Faithful,  this 
is  not  play  ;  it  is  your  majesty  that  must  condemn  him  to 
death,  and  not  me,  though  I  did  it  last  night  among  my  com- 
rades.* 

The  caliph  fully  convinced  of  Noureddin's  villany,  ordered 
him  into  the  hands  of  his  ministers  of  justice,  to  be  hanged 
immediately;  and  confiscated  his  effects  to  the  use  of  Ali 
Cogia.  Then  turning  to  the  cady,  the  monarch  reprehended 
him  severely,  and  bade  him  learn  from  that  child  how  to  do 
his  duty  in  future.  At  the  close  of  the  divan,  the  caliph  again 
embraced  the  boy,  and  sent  him  home  to  his  parents  with  a 
purse  of  gold  and  the  applause  his  early  abilities  deserved. 

The  History  of  the  Enchanted  Horse. 

ON  the  Nevrouz,  that  is  to  say,  the  new  day,  which  is  the 
first  of  the  year,  and  the  beginning  of  the  spring,  there  is  aa 
ancient  and  solemn  feast  observed  through  all  Persia,  which 
nas  continued  "from  the  time  of  idolatry ;  nor  could  the  pure 
religion  of  our  holy  prophet  prevail  over  that  heathenish  cus- 
tom. Superstitious  ceremonies,  mixed  with  public  rejoicings, 
mark  the  Nevrouz  which  is  celebrated  in  every  town  and  vil* 
lage  iii  that  extensive  kingdom. 

At  the  court,  this  feast  is  always  attended  with  the  greatest 
splendor  ;  and  it  was  some  years  ago  a  custom  that  all  artists, 
natives  or  strangers,  were  allowed  at  that  time  to  produce  their 
several  inventions  before  the  king  ;  who  never  failed  to  confer 
liberal  rewards  on  those  whose  abilities  deserved  them. 

Near  the  close  of  one  of  these  feats,  an  Indian  presented 
himself  before  the  king,  having  an  artificial  horse,  of  the  most 
perfect  workmanship,  richly  accoutred.  "  I  flatter  myself,  sin* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  871 

said  the  Indian,  addressing  himself  to  th'3  king,  ft  th.  i  youi 
majesty  hath  never  seen  anything  so  wonderful  as  this  horse, 
either  now,  or  at  any  former  Nevrouz."  The  king  surveyed 
the  horse  with  attention.  u  I  see  nothing,"  said  he,  "  but  a  fine 
piece  of  sculpture,  which  any  abl  3  artist  may  equal." 

"  Sir,"  replied  the  Indian,  "  it  is  not  his  form,  but  his  use  that 
I  commend  so  highly.  On  his  back  I  can  convey  myself 
ihrough  the  air,  to  the  most  distant  part  of  the  earth,  in  a  very 
ilion  time.  I  can  even  instruct  any  other  person  to  ride  in  the 
same  manner.  Such  is  the  curiosity  I  have  the  honor  to  pre- 
sent to  your  majesty's  notice." 

The  king  was  highly  pleased  with  this  account  of  the  In 
dian's  horse ;  and  desired  to  see  a  proof  of  his  abilities.  "  There 
is,"  said  the  king,  pointing  to  a  mountain  about  three  leagues 
off,  "  there  is  on  the  summit  of  that  mountain,  a  palm-tree  of  a 
particular  quality,  which  I  should  know  from  all  others ;  go. 
fetch  me  a  branch  of  it."  . 

"  The  Indian  mounted  his  horse,  and  turning  a  peg  which 
was  in  the  neck,  away  he  flew  with  him,  and  they  were  pre- 
sently out  of  sight.  Within  a  quarter  of  an  hour  he  was  seen 
returning  with  a  palm-branch  in  his  hand,  which,  as  soon  as 
he  had  descended  and  alighted,  he  laid  at  the  king's  feet. 

The  king  was  greatly  pleased  with  this  extraordinary  per- 
formance ;  and  resolved  to  purchase  the  horse  if  he  could  pre- 
vail with  the  owner  to  part  with  him.  Accordingly,  he  asked 
the  Indian  if  he  was  to  be  sold.  "  Sir,"  replied  the  Indian,  "  I 
ehould  not  have  produced  my  horse  to  your  majesty,  if  it  had 
been  absolutely  impossible  for  me  to  sell  him.  Yet  the  artist 
from  whom  I  received  him  laid  me  under  the  most  solemn  in- 
junction that  I  should  never  part  with  him  for  money ;  nor 
indeed  on  any  terms,  but  such  as  I  might  request  your  pardofc 
before  I  presume  to  name  them." 

The  king  impatiently  answered  that  he  forgave  his  demand 
even  if  it  was  to  reach  his  crown ;  but  he  reserved  to  himself 
the  power  of  refusal,  if  he  thought  that  demand  too  exorbitant 
The  Indian  then  replied  that  he  was  ready  to  resign  his  horse 


576  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

if  his  majesty  would  condescend  to  bestow  on  him  the  princes^ 
his  daughter,  in  marriage. 

When  the  courtiers  heard  this  extravagant  request,  they  ali 
burst  into  loud  laughter ;  but  the  prince  Firouz  Schah,  the 
only  son  of  the  king,  was  enraged,  and  the  more  so  when  hfe 
saw  the  king  pensive,  debating  with  himself  what  answer  to 
return.  Going  up  to  his  father,  he  said,  "  I  entreat  youi 
oaa'esty  will  pardon  the  liberty  I  am  about  to  take ;  but  is  it 
possible  you  can  hesitate  a  moment  what  answer  to  make  to 
this  insolent  fellow  ?  Can  you  bear  to  think  of  degrading  our 
house  by  an  alliance  with  a  scandalous  juggler  ?  " 

The  king  approved  of  his  son's  spirit,  but  argued  that  if  ho 
refused  to  comply  with  the  Indian's  proposal,  perhaps  some 
other  sovereign  might  be  less  nice,  and  by  that  means  become 
possessed  of  the  greatest  curiosity  in  the  world.  He  concluded 
his  discourse,  by  desiring  his  son  to  examine  the  horse  atten- 
tively, and  give  his  opinion  of  him. 

Respect  for  his  father  made  him  receive  these  orders  in 
silence.  He  approached  the  horse,  and  the  Indian  drew  near 
to  instruct  the  prince  in  the  method  of  managing  him ;  but  the 
haughty  young  man  was  in  too  great  a  fury  to  listen  to  him. 
He  spurned  the  kneeling  Indian  with  the  most  hearty  indigna- 
tion, and  leaping  into  the  saddle,  he  turned  the  peg,  and  the 
horse  flew  away  with  him. 

The  Indian  was  exceedingly  alarmed  when  he  saw  the 
prince  depart  before  he  had  learned  how  to  manage  the  horse. 
He  threw  himself  once  more  at  the  king's  feet,  and  besought 
his  majesty  not  to  impute  to  him  any  accident  which  might  De- 
fa  the  prince,  since  his  own  impetuosity  only  had  exposed  him 
tc  langer.  The  king  had  no  apprehension  for  his  son,  till  he 
saw  the  Indian  so  terrified.  He  then  felt  all  the  horrors  of 
the  prince's  situation.  He  execrated  the  Indian  and  his  fatal 
horse,  and  ordered  his  officers  to  seize  and  conduct  him  to 
prison.  "  If  my  son  does  not  return  safe,"  said  he,  "  in  a  short 
time,  thj  paltry  life,  at  least,  shall  be  sacrificed  to  my  ven- 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  8?1 

In  the  meantime,  Firouz  Schah  was  carried  through  the  ail 
with  inconceivable  swiftness,  till  at  length  he  could  scarcely 
discern  the  earth  at  all.  He  then  wished  to  return,  whicfc 
he  expected  to  do  by  turning  the  peg  the  contrary  way ;  but 
when  he  found  the  horse  continued  to  rise  from  the  earth,  and 
proceed  forward  at  the  same  time  with  greater  swiftness,  he 
was  alarmed,  and  began  to  regret  his  pride  and  anger.  H« 
turned  the  peg  about  every  way,  to  no  purpose ;  in  this  situa- 
tion he  retained,  notwithstanding,  a  perfect  presence  of  mind* 
and,  on  examining  the  horse  closely,  he  at  last  perceived  an* 
other  peg  behind  the  •ear.  On  turning  that  peg,  he  presently 
found  that  he  descended  in  the  same  oblique  manner  that  h« 
had  mounted,  but  not  so  swiftly. 

As  he  drew  near  the  earth,  he  lost  the  light  by  degrees,  till 
he  came  into  total  darkness.  He  did  not  attempt,  therefor*, 
to  guide  the  horse ;  but  waited  patiently,  though  not  without 
apprehensions,  till  he  should  alight. 

It  was  midnight  when  the  horse  stopped,  and  Firouz  dis- 
mounted, faint  with  hunger  and  fatigue.  He  groped  about 
and  found  he  was  on  the  leads  of  eome  large  building:  at 
length  he  came  to  some  steps  which  he  descended,  and  rambled 
about  in  the  dark  for  some  time ;  at  last,  on  opening  a  door, 
he  found  a  light,  and  saw  a  number  of  black  eunuchs  fast 
asleep  on  pallets,  with  their  sabres  lying  by  them.  This  con- 
vinced him  that  he  was  in  a  palace,  and  that  this  chamber  waa 
ihe  guard-room  of  some  princes.  As  he  knew  if  any  of  the 
eunuchs  should  awake,  **e  should  be  in  great  danger,  he  re- 
solved to  enter  the  next  a  irtment,  and  throw  himself  on  the 
mercy  of  the  lady  who  inha  'ted  it. 

He  found  there  asleep  01  a  sofa  a  young  lady  whose  ex- 
quisite beauty  captivated  his  heart  the  moment  he  beheld  her 
Her  women  were  sleeping  in  little  beds  around  her.  The 
prince  gazed  on  her  for  a  long  time,  forgetful  of  his  situation  j 
and,  at  length,  by  an  involuntary  impulse,  he  knelt  down,  and 
f  ently  pulling  her  hand  towards  him,  he  kissed  it. 

The  motion  awakened  the  princess,  who  was  surprised  U 
32* 


478  ARABIAN    NIGHT'S 

flnd  a  strunger  at  her  bedside.  She  would  have  cried  out,  bat 
Firouz  besought  her  patience.  He  told  her  that  he  was  the 
ion  of  a  king,  and  that  a  very  extraordinary  accident,  which 
he  would  relate,  had  brought  him  to  the  necessity  of  claiming 
her  protection. 

The  lady  was  the  daughter  of  the  king  of  Bengal.  Many 
of  her  attendants  were  by  this  time  awakened.  She  told  Firouz, 
therefore,  that  she  should  be  glad  to  hear  the  particulars  of 
his  adventure  in  the  morning,  but  for  the  present  besought 
him  to  withdraw.  At  the  same  time  she  ordered  her  attend- 
ants to  conduct  him  to  a  chamber,  and  "supply  him  with  such 
refreshments  as  he  wanted. 

The  prince  attended  her  the  next  day,  and  related  to  her 
all  the  particulars  of  the  arrival  of  the  Indian  with  his  horse, 
of  his  insolent  demand,  and  its  consequences.  He  concluded 
his  account  of  his  journey  by  observing,  that  how  much  soever 
he  had  been  enraged  at  the  Indian,  he  now  began  to  consider 
him  as  a  benefactor.  "  Since,"  added  he,  "  he  has  been  the 
cause  of  my  being  known  to  a  lady,  whose  chains  I  shall  be 
proud  to  wear  as  long  as  I  live." 

The  princess  received  this  compliment  in  such  a  manner  as 
showed  it  was  very  acceptable  to  her.  She  invited  the  prince 
to  repose  a  few  days  in  her  palace,  to  recover  himself  from 
the  fatigue  and  alarm  he  had  undergone.  He  accepted  this 
invitation ;  and  being  much  together,  they  became  more  and 
more  enamoured  with  each  other.  And,  at  last,  when  filial 
duty  obliged  Firouz  to  think  of  returning  to  Persia,  the  fond 
princess,  fearing  she  should  see  him  no  more,  dropped  a  hint 
that  she  should  not  be  afraid  to  trust  herself  with  him  on  the 
enchanted  horse;  and  the  prince,  equally  enamoured,  failed 
not  to  confirm  her  in  this  rash  disposition. 

Everything  being  agreed  on  between  jhe  lovers,  they  re- 
paired, one  morning  at  daybreak,  to  the  leads  where  the  horse 
atilJ  remained ;  and,  having  turned  his  head  towards  Persia, 
Firouz  assisted  the  princess  to  mount  him.  He  then  placed 
himself  before  her,  and,  turning  the  peg,  they  were  out  o/ 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  87V 

Bight  before  any  of  the  attendants  in  the  palace  were  stirring 
and  in  two  hours  the  prince  discovered  the  capital  of  Persia. 

He  would  not  alight  at  the  king's  palace,  but  directed  his 
course  to  a  neat  pleasure-house,  in  a  wood,  a  little  distance 
from  town,  that  he  might  inform  his  father  who  the  lady  was, 
and  secure  her  a  reception  suitable  to  her  dignity.  When  they 
alighted,  he  led  her  into  a  handsome  apartment,  and  ordered 
the  keeper  of  the  house  to  show  her  all  imaginable  respect.  He 
then  hastened  to  the  palace,  where  the  king  received  him  with 
unspeakable  joy.  Firouz  related  to  his  father  all  that  had 
befallen  him,  and  the  king  was  so  delighted  with  his  son's  safe 
arrival,  that  he  readily  complied  with  his  desire  that  the  nuptial 
ceremonies  between  him  and  the  princess  should  be  immedi- 
ately celebrated. 

While  the  necessary  preparations  were  making,  the  king 
ordered  the  Indian,  who  was  to  have  been  executed  the  nexx 
day,  to  be  released  from  prison,  and  brought  before  him. 
"  My  son's  safe  arrival,"  said  the  king  to  him,  "  hath  preserved 
thy  life.  Take  thy  horse,  and  begone  from  my  dominions ; 
where,  if  thou  art  ever  seen  again,  I  will  not  fail  to  put  thee 
to  death."  The  Indian  being  then  freed  from  his  chains,  and 
Bet  at  liberty,  withdrew  in  silence. 

But  he  meditated  a  severe  revenge.  He  had  learned  from 
those  who  fetched  him  out  of  prison,  that  Firouz  had  brought 
home  with  him  a  beautiful  princess,  to  whom  he  was  about  to 
be  married.  He  was  told  also  that  she  was  at  the  house  in 
the  wood,  where  he  was  directed  to  go  and  take  away  his 
horse.  While  Firouz  was  preparing  a  good  retinue  to  conduct 
the  princess  in  great  state  to  the  palace,  the  Indian  hastened 
to  the  house  in  the  wood,  and  told  the  keeper  he  was  sent  by 
the  prince  to  conduct  her,  on  the  horse,  to  the  capital ;  anfl 
that  the  whole  court  and  people  were  waiting  with  impatience 
for  the  wonderful  sight. 

The  keeper  knew  that  the  Indian  had  been  imprisoned  or 
account  of  the  prince's  absence ;  and,  seeing  him  now  at  lib 


$80  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

erty,  he  believed  all  he  said.  He  presented  the  traitor  to  tVi< 
princess,  who  not  doubting  but  he  came  from  Firouz,  readilj 
agreed  to  go  with  him.  The  Indian,  overjoyed  at  his  success, 
mounted  his  horse,  took  the  princess  behind  him,  and  turning 
the  peg,  the  horse  immediately  ascended  into  the  air.  The 
king  and  his  whole  court  were  on  the  road  to  the  house  in  the 
wood,  to  conduct  the  princess  of  Bengal  from  thence  to  the 
palace ;  when  the  Indian,  to  brave  them,  and  revenge  the  se- 
vere treatment  he  had  received,  passed  several  times  over 
their  heads  with  his  prize.  The  rage  and  grief  of  the  king 
was  extreme.  He  loaded  the  ravisher  with  a  thousand  exe* 
crations,  in  which  he  was  joined  by  the  courtiers  and  people. 
The  Indian,  having  expressed  his  contempt  for  them,  and  his 
triumph  over  the  king  and  his  son,  his  horse  set  forward,  and 
was  presently  out  of  sight. 

But  who  can  describe  the  horror  and  despair  of  Firouz, 
when  he  saw  his  beloved  princess  torn  from  him  by  a  vile 
Indian,  whom  he  before  detested ;  and  found  himself  unable 
to  afford  her  the  least  assistance.  At  first  he  abandoned  him- 
self to  despair ;  but  recollecting  that  such  a  conduct  would 
neither  recover  the  princess,  nor  punish  the  ravisher,  he  re- 
strained his  affliction,  and  began  to  consider  how  he  could  best 
effect  these  desirable  purposes.  He  put  on  the  habit  of  a 
dervise,  and  left  the  palace  the  same  evening,  uncertain  which 
way  to  go,  but  determined  not  to  return  till  he  had  found  his 
princess  again,  and  could  bring  her  with  him. 

In  the  meantime,  the  Indian  having  pursued  his  journey 
for  several  hours,  alighted  in  a  wood,  near  the  capital  of 
Caschmire.  As  he  was  hungry  himself,  and  doubted  not  but 
the  princess  was  so  too,  he  left  her  by  the  side  of  a  brook,  and 
flew  away  on  the  horse  to  the  city,  to  procure  provisions. 
The  princess  made  the  best  use  in  her  power  of  his  absence ; 
and  though  faint  for  want  of  food,  she  travelled  on,  and  had 
got  a  considerable  distance  from  the  place  where  the  ravisher 
feft  ter,  when  she  had  the  mortification  to  see  him  return,  and 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  381 

alight  close  by  her ;  for  the  Indian  had  wished  to  be  set  down 
wherever  the  princess  was,  and  the  horse  always  obeyed  th« 
desire  of  the  rider. 

The  Indian  produced  some  wine  and  provisions,  and  ata 
heartily,  urging  her  to  follow  his  example,  which  she  thought 
it  best  to  do.  When  they  had  done,  he  drew  ne'ar  and  began 
'o  take  certain  liberties  with  the  princess,  which  she  repulsed 
with  indignation.  The  slave  irritated  at  this  opposition,  de- 
termined to  use  violence,  and  had  begun  to  do  so,  when  her 
s«tcries  drew  a  company  of  horsemen  to  her  assistance. 

They  proved  to  be  the  sultan  of  Caschmire  and  his  attend- 
ants, returning  from  a  day's  hunting.  When  the  sultan  de- 
manded of  the  Indian  why  he  used  the  lady  so  roughly,  he 
boldly  answered  that  she  was  his  wife ;  but  the  princess,  though 
Bhe  knew  not  the  quality  of  the  sultan,  besought  his  protection, 
and  declared,  that  by  the  basest  deceit  only,  she  had  been 
thrown  into  the  power  of  such  a  reptile. 

The  sultan  of  Caschmire  was  very  amorous.  The  disorder 
and  distress  of  the  princess  added  to  her  beauty,  and  excited 
the  desires  of  the  monarch.  He  was  not  nice  in  gratifying 
ehem ;  and  judging  that,  whether  the  Indian  w^s  the  husband 
or  the  ravisher  of  the  lady,  he  would  be  best  out  of  the  way, 
he  pretended  to  be  much  enraged  against  him,  and  ordered  his 
head  to  be  struck  off  immediately.  He  then  conducted  the 
princess  to  his  palace,  and  directed  his  attendants  to  bring  the 
horse  after  them,  though  he  knew  nothing  of  the  use  of  it. 

The  princess  of  Bengal  rejoiced  at  her  deliverance.  She 
entertained  hopes  that  the  sultan  of  Caschmire  would  gen- 
erously restore  her  to  the  prince  of  Persia ;  but  she  was  much 
deceived ;  for  as  soon  as  the  sultan  learned  that  jhe  was  daugh- 
ter to  the  king  of  Bengal,  he  altered  his  views  with  respect  to 
her.  He  determined  to  marry  her,  and  that  no  untoward  cir- 
cumstances might  happen  to  prevent  it,  he  gave  orders  for  the 
necessary  preparations  to  be  completed  by  the  next  day. 

In  the  morning,  the  princess  was  awakened  early  by  the 
•ounding  of  trumpets,  the  beating  of  drums,  and  other 


582  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

tokens  of  public  joy,  which  echoed  through  the  pa  ace  and 
city.  On  her  asking  the  cause  of  this  rejoicing,  she  was  told 
it  was  to  celebrate  her  marriage  with  their  sultan,  whict  was 
to  taks  place  presently. 

The  princess's  attachment  to  Firouz  would  have  made  any 
other  man's  addresses  disagreeable  to  her.  But  this  conduct 
;;  the  sultan  of  Caschmire  in  proclaiming  their  nuptials,  with 
out  even  having  asked  her  consent,  at  once  enraged  and  ter 
rifled  her.  She  was  entirely  in  his  power  ;  and  the  disrespec: 
he  had  paid  her,  convinced  her  that  she  had  everything  to  fear 
from  his  violence,  if  she  refused  to  comply  with  his  wishes. 

Thus  critically  situated,  she  had  recourse  to  art.  She  arose 
and  dressed  herself  fancifully,  and  in  her  whole  behavior  ap- 
peared to  her  women  to  be  unsettled  in  her  intellects.  The 
sultan  was  soon  apprized  of  this  misfortune,  and  on  his  ap- 
proach she  put  on  the  appearance  of  phrensy,  and  endeavored 
to  fly  at  him ;  and  this  fury  she  ever  after  affected  whenever 
he  came  in  her  sight.  The  sultan  was  much  disturbed  at  thia 
unfortunate  event,  as  he  thought  it,  and  offered  large  rewards 
to  any  physician  who  could  cure  her  ;  but  the  princess  would 
not  suffer  any  one  to  come  near  her,  so  that  all  hope  of  her 
recovery  began  to  be  despaired  of. 

During  this  interval,  Firouz,  disguised  as  a  dervise,  had 
travelled  through  many  provinces,  full  of  grief,  and  uncertain 
which  way  to  direct  his  course  in  search  of  his  beloved  prin- 
cess. At  last,  passing  through  a  town  in  India,  he  heard  an 
account  that  a  princess  of  Bengal  had  run  mad  on  the  day  of 
the  celebration  of  her  nuptials  with  the  sultan  of  Caschmire. 
Slender  as  was  the  hope  that  such  a  report  gave  him,  he  re- 
solved to  travel  to  the  capital  of  that  kingdom ;  where,  when 
he  arrived,  he  had  the  happiness  to  find  he  had  not  journeyed 
in  vain.  He  learned  all  the  particulars  of  her  having  been 
delivered  from  the  Indian  by  their  sultan,  and  that  the  very 
next  day  she  was  seized  with  madness. 

Firouz  saw  at  once  the  reason  of  the  princess's  conduct,  and 
was  delighted  with  this  tender  proof  of  her  love  and  COD 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  385 

iftincy  to  him.  All  the  difficulty  which  remained,  was  to  obtain 
an  opportunity  of  speaking  to  her.  To  gain  this,  he  put  on 
the  habit  of  a  physician,  and  presenting  himself  to  the  sultan, 
undertook  to  cure  the  princess. 

His  services  being  accepted,  he  desired  first  to  see  her,  with- 
out being  seen  by  her.  For  this  purpose  he  was  conveyeJ 
into  a  closet,  from  whence  he  saw  her  unobserved ;  she  was 
carelessly  singing  a  song,  in  which  she  deplored  her  unhappy 
fate,  which  had  forever  deprived  her  of  the  object  she  loved 
so  tenderly.  When  he  quitted  the  closet,  he  told  the  sultan 
she  was  not  incurable,  but  that  it  was  necessary  for  him  to 
Bpeak  with  her  alone  ;  and  that  notwithstanding  her  violent 
fits  at  the  sight  of  physicians,  he  knew  how  to  make  her  attend 
to  him. 

As  the  princess  had  been  long  thought  incurable,  the  sultan 
made  no  difficulty  of  complying  with  the  supposed  physkjian's 
request.  As  soon  as  he  entered  her  ^apartment,  she  began  to 
rave  at  him  in  her  usual  furious  manner,  on  which  he  went 
up  close  to  her,  and  said,  in  a  low  voice,  "  I  am  the  prince  of 
Persia." 

The  princess  ceased  to  rave,  and  the  attendant  withdrew, 
rejoiced  at  this  proof  of  the  physician's  abilities.  After  mutual 
congratulations,  Firouz  acquainted  her  with  the  plan  he  had 
formed  for  her  deliverance.  He  then  returned  to  the  sultan, 
who  demanded  eagerly  what  hopes  he  now  entertained.  The 
pretended  physician  shook  his  head,  and  said,  "  All  depends 
upon  a  mere  chance ;  the  princess,  a  few  hours  before  she  waa 
taken  ill,  had  touched  something  that  was  enchanted:  unless 
I  can  obtain  that  something,  be  it  what  it  may,  I  cannot  cure 
her." 

The  sultan  of  Caschmire  presently  recollected  the  horse, 
which  was  still  preserved  in  his  treasury.  He  showed  it  t& 
the  imaginary  physician,  who,  on  seeing  it,  very  gravely  said, 
*  I  congratulate  your  majesty  on  the  certainty  of  rny  success, 
Let  this  horse  be  brought  out  into  the  great  square  before  th« 


tfS4  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

palace,  and  let  the  princess  attend ;  I  will  engage  in  a  fen 
minutes  she  shall  be  perfectly  cured." 

Accordingly,  the  following  morning  the  horse  was  placed  in 
the  middle  of  the  square,  and  the  supposed  physician  drew  a 
large  circle,  and  placed  around  it  chafing  dishes,  with  a  little 
fire  in  each.  The  sultan,  full  of  expectation,  with  all  his 
nobles  and  ministers  of  state,  attended.  The  princess  being 
brought  out  veiled,  was  conducted  wi-thin  the  circle,  and  placed 
by  the  physician  on  the  saddle  of  the  enchanted  horse.  He 
then  went  round  to  each  chafing  dish,  and  threw  in  a  certain 
drug,  which  presently  raised  such  a  cloud  of  smoke,  that  neither 
the  physician,  the  princess,  nor  the  horse,  could  be  seen  through 
it.  At  that  instant,  the  prince  of  Persia  mounted  the  horse ; 
and,  turning  the  peg,  while  the  horse  ascended  into  the  air,  he 
distinctly  pronounced  these  words:  "  Sultan  of  Caschmire,  when 
thou  wouldst  marry  princesses  who  implore  thy  protection, 
learn  first  to  obtain  their  consent." 

The  same  day  the  prince  of  Persia  and  his  beloved  princess 
arrived  safely  at  his  father's  court,  when  their  nuptials  were 
immediately  celebrated  with  the  greatest  splendor. 

T?ie  Story  of  Prince  Ahmed  and  the  Fairy  Paribanon. 

THERE  was  a  sultan  named  Mirza,  who  had  peaceably 
filled  the  throne  of  India  many  years ;  and  had  the  satisfaction 
in  his  old  age  to  have  three  sons,  the  imitators  of  his  virtues ; 
and  a  neice,  who  was  the  ornament  of  the  court.  The  eldest 
of  the  princes  was  named  Houssain,  the  second  Ali,  the  young- 
est Ahmed.  The  princess  was  called  Nouronnihar,  or  day- 
light. 

Nouronnihar,  in  virtue,  beauty,  and  wit,  was  distinguished 
beyond  all  the  princesses  of  her  time.  The  sultan  proposed 
to  marry  her,  when  she  became  of  a  proper  age,  to  some  neigh- 
ooring  prince;  but,  when  that  time  arrived,  his  sons  were 
each  of  them  passionately  in  love  with  their  cousin.  Th« 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  385 

fultan  saw  this  with  great  concern.  He  dreadjd  lest  this 
rivalry  among  the  young  men  should  destroy  their  happiness 
and  his  own.  He  tried  in  vain  to  persuade  each  in  turn  to 
give  up  his  pretensions ;  or  at  least  to  refer  his  claim  to  the 
decision  of  the  lady.  Having  reasoned  with  them  apart  to  no 
purpose,  the  sultan  called  them  together,  and  after  lamenting 
that  they  all  so  obstinately  pursued  a  happiness  which  only 
one  of  them  could  enjoy,  he  proceeded  thus :  "  I  have,  my 
sons,  hit  upon  an  expedient,  which,  by  leaving  something  to 
chance,  and  more  to  diligence,  will,  I  hope,  decide  your  con- 
test, without  destroying  your  fraternal  love.  I  would  have 
each  of  you  travel  for  a  twelvemonth,  not  as  princes,  but  as 
private  merchants.  I  will  give  you  a  large  sum  of  money,  and 
he  that  brings  home  the  greatest  rarity  shall  receive  Nouron- 
nihar  as  his  reward." 

The  proposal  was  so  fair  and  impartial,  that  the  three  princea 
readily  agreed  to  it.  Accordingly,  they  set  out  the  next  morn- 
ing, each  attended  by  a  trusty  officer,  in  the  habit  of  a  slave. 
They  travelled  together  the  first  day ;  and  lay  at  an  inn  where 
the  road  divided  in  three  different  tracks.  They  supped  in 
great  harmony ;  and  agreed  to  return  to  the  same  inn,  at  the 
end  of  the  year,  and  wait  for  each  other,  that  they  might  go 
together  to  their  father's  palace.  The  next  morning,  at  break 
of  day,  they  embraced,  and  mounted  their  horses,  each  taking 
a  different  road. 

Prince  Houssain  had  heard  much  of  the  grandeur,  strength, 
and  riches  of  the  kingdom  of  Bisnagar.  He  bent  his  course 
vhither,  and  after  five  months'  severe  travelling,  he  arrived 
safe  in  the  capital  of  that  kingdom.  He  lodged  in  a  khan, 
appointed  for  foreign  merchants,  and  when  he  had  recovered 
his  fatigue,  he  took  a  survey  of  the  city. 

It  was  formed  into  four  divisions,  in  the  centre  of  whict 
«tood  the  royal  palace.  The  division  which  chiefly  engaged  the 
attention  of  the  prince  was  that  where  the  merchants  sold  their 
t arious  commodities.  It  was  large,  and  divided  into  many 
streets,  all  vaulted,  and  shaded  from  the  sun  yet  very  light 

33 


J  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

The  shops  were  all  of  a  size,  and  built  exactly  alike.  All  la* 
people  that  dealt  in  the  same  sort  of  goods  lived  in  one  street  \ 
as  did  also  the  mechanics,  who  kept  their  shops  in  the  smaller 
streets. 

Prince  Houssain  was  much  pleased  at  seeing  such  largo 
stock*  of  all  sorts  of  merchandize.  The  finest  linens  from 
India,  painted  in  the  most  lively  colors;  silks  and  brocades 
from  Persia ;  porcelain  from  Japan  and  China ;  but  when  he 
came  to  the  shops  of  the  jewellers  and  goldsmiths,  the  prodi- 
gious quantity  of  jewels  of  every  sort,  and  of  wrought  gold 
and  silver,  astonished  him;  nor  was  he  less  amazed  at  the 
general  riches  of  the  people,  when  he  learned  that  except  the 
bramins  and  others  who  professed  a  voluntary  poverty,  there 
was  scarce  an  Indian  man  or  woman  but  what  wore  necklaces, 
bracelets,  and  ornaments  of  pearl  and  other  jewels  about  their 
legs  and  feet,  which  appeared  with  great  lustre,  as  they  were 
blacks. 

Another  matter  took  much  of  the  prince's  attention,  which 
was  the  great  number  of  rose-sellers  that  crowded  the  streets ; 
for  the  Indians  were  such  great  admirers  of  that  flower,  that 
none  of  them  would  stir  without  a  nosegay  in  his  hand,  or  a 
garland  on  his  head,  so  that  the  air  was  perfectly  perfumed. 

Having  fully  satisfied  his  curiosity,  he  began  to  apply  him- 
self seriously  to  the  business  of  his  journey.  He  passed  many 
days  among  the  merchants,  and  became  acquainted  with  many 
of  them,  but  was  not  able  to  find  anything  so  rare,  as  to  meu 
his  wishes 

As  he  was  sitting  one  day  in  a  shop,  he  saw  a  crier  puss  by 
with  a  piece  of  tapestry  on  his  arm,  about  six  feet  squaic, 
which  he  cried  at  thirty  purses.  He  called  the  crier,  anu 
examined  the  tapestry,  which  seemed  to  be  of  so  ordinary  a 
quality,  that  the  prince  could  not  comprehend  why  so  extrav- 
agant a  price  was  set  on  it.  The  crier,  who  took  him  for  a 
merchant,  told  him,  as  he  was  surveying  it,  that,  though  it  was 
eried  at  thirty  purses,  he  had  orders  to  raise  it  to  forty ;  and 
^t  to  part  with  it  under.  "  Certainly/'  said  the  prince,  "  ther* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  88? 

mast  be  some  merit  in  this  tapestry  which  one  cannot  Bte ;  foi 
it  does  not  appear  to  be  worth  so  many  purses ! "  "  You  are 
in  the  right,"  replied  the  crier,  "  the  reason  this  tapestry  is  of 
such  high  value  is  that  whoever  sits  on  it,  may  be  transported 
in  an  instant  to  whatever  place  he  desires,  without  being  stop- 
ped by  any  obstacle." 

It  struck  prince  Houssain  that  he  could  not  hope  to  meet 
with  a  greater  curiosity.  He  asked  the  crier  how  he  should 
be  convinced  it  possessed  such  a  quality ;  to  which  he  replied, 
*  I  suppose,  sir,  you  have  not  so  much  money  about  you ;  1 
will  spread  the  tapestry,  and  we  will  both  sit  on  it.  You  shall 
form  the  wish  to  be  in  your  khan ;  and  if  we  are  not  both 
there  immediately,  it  shall  not  be  a  bargain."  To  this  fair 
proposal  the  prince  agreed.  The  experiment  was  made,  and 
succeeded  completely.  He  paid  the  crier  the  forty  purses, 
and  congratulated  himself  on  his  good  fortune. 

Houssain  could  have  returned  home  directly;  but  his  honor 
would  not  permit  him  to  violate  his  engagement  with  his 
brothers. 

He  devoted,  therefore,  the  remainder  of  the  year  to  the 
acquiring  of  knowledge.  He  visited  the  court  of  the  king  of 
Bisnagar,  and  viewed  everything  curious  in  the  city  which 
he  had  not  already  seen.  He  informed  himself  in  everything 
respecting  the  manners  and  police  of  the  country,  and  the 
strength  and  riches  of  the  sovereign. 

Amidst  the  public  buildings  his  attention  was  much  engaged 
by  a  tempie  of  idols  which  was  built  of  brass.  It  was  ten 
cubits  square,  and  fifteen  high.  The  principal  idol  was  the 
height  of  a  man,  of  massive  gold:  its  eyes  were  rubies,  so 
artificially  set,  that  it  seemed  to  look  at  the  spectator  in  what- 
ever direction  he  stood.  There  was  also  another  very  curious 
temple  at  a  little  distance  from  the  metropolis,  in  the  midst  ot 
a  large  plain,  which  was  formed  into  an  elegant  garden ;  thers 
was  raised  a  terrace,  in  the  middle  of  which  was  a  temple 
\dorned  with  a  great  variety  of  paintings  and  sculpt  ares. 

Superstitious  ceremonies  were  performed  every  night  and 


588  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

morning  in  this  temple,  and  these  were  always  follow  3d  bj 
sports,  music^  dancing,  and  feasting.  The  ministers  of  this 
temple  were  supported  entirely  by  the  offerings  of  pilgrims 
who  came  in  great  numbers  from  the  most  distant  parts  of  th« 
tingdom. 

Before  prince  Houssain  left  the  city  there  was  a  solemn 
feast  celebrated,  at  which  all  the  governors  and  judges  of 
towns,  and  the  most  celebrated  bramins  were  obliged  to  be 
present,  though  some  lived  so  far  off  as  to  be  four  months  in 
coming.  At  this  meeting  the  king  gave  solemn  audiences  to 
the  travellers,  and  to  many  other  strangers  who  applied.  Aftei 
which  the  assembly  resembled  an  immense  fair,  where  musi 
cians,  stage-players,  and  other  artists  endeavored  to  engage 
the  attention  of  the  people.  Many  of  these  performed  their 
amusements  on  castles,  erected  on  the  backs  of  elephants,  whose 
trunks,  ears,  and  bodies  were  painted  in  very  grptesque  char- 
acters. 

These  unwieldy  animals  were  trained  by  their  masters  to 
display  tricks  which  show  great  docility  in  the  boast.  One  of 
them  surprised  prince  Houssain  by  standing  with  his  fore  feet 
on  a  post,  and  beating  time  to  music  with  his  trunk.  Another 
performed  a  more  extraordinary  feat  nearly  of  the  same  nature. 
For,  though  placed  on  a  board,  which  formed  a  seesaw,  and 
was  balanced  by  weights  at  the  other  end,  he  still,  amidst  that 
motion  so  unnatural  to  him,  beat  time  also  to  music  with  great 
exactness. 

As  the  time  of  returning  drew  on,  Houssain  began  to  be  im- 
patient. His  passion  for  his  lovely  cousin  had  increased  by 
absence,  and  he  fancied  he  should  be  more  easy  if  he  wa« 
nearer  to  her.  He  caused,  therefore,  the  officer  who  attended 
dim  to  sit  down  with  him  on  the  tapestry,  and  they  were  in- 
stantly transported  to  the  inn,  at  which  he  had  agreed  to  meet 
I  is  brothers  >  where  he  appeared  as  a  merchant,  till  they 
arrived. 

Prince  Ali,  the  second  brother,  went  to  the  capital  of  Persia 
*'here  he  passed  much  of  his  time  in  the  bezestein,  among  the 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  5 

jncrchants*  As  he  was  conversing  with  some  of  them,  he  ob- 
served a  salesman  of  the  market,  with  an  ivory  perspective 
glass  in  his  hand,  about  a  foot  long,  which  he  offered  to  sell, 
demanding  fifty  purses  for  it. 

The  salesman  presented  it  to  the  prince,  who  had  the  com- 
plaisance  to  receive  it  from  him,  though  he  thought  he  was 
mad  to  ask  such  a  price  for  it.  He  fitted  it  to  look  through, 
and  the  salesman  was  about  to  explain  the  use  of  it,  but  that 
•  was  rendered  unnecessary ;  for  as  Nouronnihar  was  ever 
present  to  the  prince's  imagination,  he  chanced,  as  he  raised 
the  glass  to  his  eye,  to  wish  he  could  see  her  with  it.  He  w<w 
astonished,  when,  on  looking  through  the  glass,  he  beheld  tki 
princess  at  her  toilet,  laughing,  with  her  women  about  her 

He  put  the  glass  to  his  eye  the  secon*  time,  and  wished  tc 
see  his  father ;  when  he  immediately  saw  the  sultan  sitting  on 
his  throne,  in  the  midst  of  his  council.  He  tried  the  glass 
again,  by  desiring  to  see  first  his  brother  Houssain,  and  then 
his  brother  Ahmed  ;  in  both  which  cases  he  succeeded. 

Prince  Ali  considered  this  glass  as  a  curiosity  that  could  no- 
where be  matched.  He  paid  the  sum  demanded  for  it,  and 
was  overjoyed  at  his  bargain,  being  assured  that  neither  of  his 
brothers  would  be  able  to  meet  with  anything  so  curious,  and 
that  the  princess  Nouronnihar  would  be  the  reward  of  his 
fatigue  and  trouble. 

Prince  Ahmed  took  the  road  to  Samarcand,  where  he  re- 
sided some  time  without  anything  of  consequence  occurring  to 
him.  He  associated  much  with  men  of  science,  to  whom  hi* 
abilities  rendered  him  an  agreeable  companion.  Among  these 
respectable  associates  he  learned  that  a  celebrated  philosophei 
of  that  country  had  composed  an  artificial  apple,  the  smell  of 
which  cured  all  disorders  ;  that  this  invention  had  been  of  no 
use  to  the  author,  who  being  seized  with  a  sudden  illness  « 
great  way  from  home,  where  his  apple  was,  had  died.  It  wai 
added,  that  the  widow  was  poor,  and  wished  to  sell  it  but  thai 
the  asked  sixty  purses  for  it ;  no  one  in  that  country  was  rid 
snough  to  purchase. 

33« 


MK)  AR1BIAN   NIGHTS' 

Ahmed  listened  to  this  discourse  with  great  attention.  He 
concluded  that  if  L3  had  heard  a  true  account  of  this  artifiidal 
apple,  it  was  not  only  the  most  curious,  but  the  most  useful 
thing  in  the  world.  He  applied  to  the  widow  of  the  philoso- 
pher, and  having  by  repeated  experiments  proved  the  virtue 
of  the  apple,  he  paid  her  the  price  she  demanded,  and  took 
possession  of  it  with  the  highest  satisfaction.  The  year  draw- 
ing to  a  close,  he  joined  a  caravan,  and  arrived  in  perfect 
health  at  the  inn,  where  he  found  the  princes  Houssain  and  Ali 
waiting  for  him. 

When  the  three  brothers  met,  they  embraced  each  other  with 
great  affection.  After  some  general  conversation,  Ali  asked  his 
brother  how  long  sin'  3  they  had  arrived  ?  "  I  have  been  here," 
replied  Houssain,  "  f./iree  months."  "  You  did  not  travel  far 
then,"  said  Ali.  "  I  was  five  months  before  I  reached  the  end 
of  my  journey,"  answered  Houssain,  "and  stayed  four  months 
at  the  city  I  then  arrived  at."  "  I  cannot  comprehend  hem 
this  is  possible,"  replied  Ali,  "  unless  you  flew  back ! " 

Houssain,  without  answering  Ali,  addressed  himself  to  both 
his  brothers,  and  said,  "  As  we  are  within  a  day's*journey  of  our 
father's  court,  and  our  hopes  respecting  our  beloved  cousin 
must  soon  be  decided,  let  us  with  the  frankness  becoming 
brothers,  produce  now  our  curiosities ;  that  we  may  judge  to 
whom  our  father  will  give  the  preference."  He  then  produced 
his  tapestry,  and  told  them  the  qualities  of  it ;  at  the  same  time 
remarking  to  his  brother  Ali,  that  it  was  by  his  tapestry  only, 
that  he  could  explain  the  riddle  of  his  journey  and  return. 

Prince  Ali  produced  his  perspective  glass,  and  described  iti 
virtues,  after  which  he  put  it  into  the  hand  of  his  elder  brother. 
Houssain  raised  the  glass  to  his  eye,  and  wished  to  see  the 
princess  Nouronnihar.  Instantly  he  turned  very  pale,  and  was 
seized  with  great  agitation.  "  Alas,  my  brothers ! "  said  he, 
tt  our  contest  is  at  an  end,  and  we  shall  none  of  us  possess  our 
Icvely  cousin.  Nouronnihar  now  lies  at  the  point  of  death ! " 

Ali  and  Ahmed  each  hastily  snatched  the  glass,  and  were 
convinced  Houssain's  account  was  too  true.  The  two  eldei 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  891 

brothers  were  resigning  themselves  to  despair ;  but  Ahmed 
producing  his  apple,  said,  "  You  have  not  askt-d  fur  my  cu- 
riosity, brothers,  which  can  in  an  instant  repair  all  this  mis- 
chief. If  a  sick  person,  though  ki  the  last  agonies,  smells  to 
this  apple,  it  will  restore  him  to  perfect  health  immediately, 
All  we  have  to  do  then  is  to  set  off  this  moment,  and  proceed 
to  the  palace  with  the  utmost  despatch." 

Ali,  who  had  again  raised  the  glass  to  his  eye,  cried  out,  *  It 
#ill  be  too  late  !  it  will  be  too  late !  alas,  she  is  now  expiring ! n 
Houssain,  hearing  this,  spread  his  tapestry  hastily,  and  placing 
his  brothers  on  it,  wished  them  and  himself  in  the  princess's 
bed-chamber.  They  found  themselves  there  in  an  instant. 
Ahmed,  not  having  had  time  to  put  by  his  apple,  had  it  in  his 
hand,  and  had  the  presence  of  mind  to  run  immediately  to  the 
expiring  princess,  and  by  putting  it  to  her  nose,  arrested  the 
fleeting  spirit. 

After  the  apple  had  been  held  to  her  for  a  short  time,  Nou- 
ronnihar  seemed  as  if  she  was  awakened  from  a  trance.  Her 
face  was  no  longer  convulsed,  she  breathed  freely,  she  opened 
her  eyes,  and  began  to  converse  with  her  attendants ;  she 
presently  found  herself  perfectly  recovered.  Her  slaves  had 
been  terrified  at  the  sudden  appearance  of  three  men  amongst 
them ;  and  the  eunuchs  were  ready  to  punish  their  intrusion, 
but  recollected  the  princes  in  time.  When  the  attendants  saw 
the  effect  of  Ahmed's  apple,  they  were  overjoyed :  the  princess 
also  paid  her  respects  to  her  cousins,  and  expressed  her  grati- 
tude to  Ahmed.  After  which  the  princes  withdrew,  and  went 
to  throw  themselves  at  the  feet  of  the  sultan. 

Their  father  received  them  with  the  greatest  joy,  accepted, 
and  applauded  their  presents  as  they  deserved  ;  and  congratu- 
lated them,  as  well  on  their  safe  return,  as  on  the  recovery  of 
the  princess.  But  when  they  pressed  him  to  decide  their  pre- 
tensions to  Nouronnihar,  and  each  urged  the  use  of  his  ao 
qmsition,  on  the  late  alarming  occasion,  he  spoke  to  them  as 
follows :  "  How  can  I  justly  determine  between  you,  my  chil 
Iren,  on  this  interesting  occasion  ?  y  >ur  apple,  my  dear  Ahiaed 


§92  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

restored  your  cousin  to  life  ;  but  without  Ali's  glass  you  would 
not  have  known  her  danger.  Nor  would  even  your  knowledge 
of  that  danger,  and  your  possessing  the  means  of  relieving  hei 
have  been  of  the  least  use,  had  not  Houssain's  tapestry  con* 
veyed  you  hither  as  it  did.  Your  presents,  in  my  opinion,  are 
equally  valuable ;  and  you  share  among  you  the  glory  of 
having  preserved 'the  princess. 

"  But  I  will  no  longer  suffer  a  contest  to  continue,  sc  fatal 
to  the  peace  of  us  all.  I  will  adopt  another  mode  of  deter- 
mining your  fortune  with  your  cousin.  The  long  bow  is  a 
manly  and  princely  exercise.  Provide  yourselves  with  bows 
and  arrows  by  to-morrow  morning,  and  I  will  give  the  princess 
to  him  who  shoots  farthest." 

The  next  morning  the  three  princes  attended  at  the  place 
appointed;  and  the  sultan  having  appointed  judges,  prince 
Houssain  shot  an  arrow,  which  flew  a  great  distance.  Ali 
shot  next,  much  beyond  him.  Ahmed  then  shot,  and  though 
it  was  universally  believed  that  he  had  shot  farthest,  yet,  as 
his  arrow  could  not  be  found,  the  judges,  notwithstanding  his 
earnest  remonstrance,  determined  in  favor  of  prince  Ali,  who 
accordingly  espoused  the  lovely  Nouronnihar,  a  few  days  after- 
wards. 

Houssain  would  not  honor  the  feast  with  his  presence.  He 
could  not  bear  to  see  the  woman  he  loved,  in  the  arms  ot  his 
rival,  though  that  rival  was  a  beloved  brother.  In  the  trans- 
port of  his  grief  he  renounced  his  succession  to  the  crown,  and 
all  intercourse  with  the  world,  and  joined  a  society  of  Der- 
vises,  whose  rules  were  unusually  rigid  and  austere. 

AJimed  also  refused  to  be  present  at  his  brother's  nuptials, 
though  he  did  not  suffer  his  disappointment  to  carry  him  to 
such  excess,  as  his  brother  Houssain  indulged.  As  he  could 
not  imagine  what  became  of  his  arrow,  he  went  in  search  of 
it,  to  the  place  where  Houssain  and  Ali's  were  found.  He 
yrcceeded,  looking  carefully  on  each  side,  till  he  had  got  so 
>ftr,  that  he  gave  up  all  thought  of  finding  it.  He  pursued 
•is  journey,  indulging  his  melancholy  reflections  till  he  camg 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 

to  some  rocks  which  were  four  leagues  distant  from  the  plac  ? 
where  he  sat  out,  and  which  bounded  his  walk  that  way,  a? 
they  were  inaccessible. 

When  Ahmed  came  to  these  rocks,  he  perceived  an  arrow 
which  he  picked  up,  and  was  astonished  to  find  it  was  the 
same  he  had  shot  away.  It  appeared  to  have  rebounded  from 
the  rock.  The  apparent  impossibility  of  any  man  shooting  an 
arrow  so  far,  made  the  prince  conclude  there  must  be  some- 
thing supernatural  in  the  matter.  His  heart  began  to  indulge 
in  happy  presages,  and  to  hope  that  his  disappointment  would 
be  made  up  to  him,  by  means  of  some  event,  which  this  inter- 
position would  produce. 

While  he  meditated  on  these  matters,  he  entered  impercep- 
tibly, some  of  the  irregular  breaks  of  the  rocks,  in  one  of  which 
he  perceived  an  iron  door.  He  pushed  against  it,  and  it  open- 
ed, when  he  found  an  easy  descent,  which  he  walked  down, 
with  his  arrow  in  his  hand.  He  had  not  advanced  many 
steps,  before  he  entered  a  spacious  and  beautiful  garden,  and 
at  a  little  distance  he  saw.  a  very  magnificent  palace.  As  lie 
drew  near  to  it,  he  was  met  by  a  very  beautiful  lady ;  her  air 
was  graceful  and  majestic,  yet  sweetly  easy  and  encouraging ; 
her  dress,  brilliant  beyond  imagination ;  and  a  large  troop  of 
handsome  and  well-dressed  attendants  bespoke  her  quality.  She 
received  the  prince  with  a  b<* watching  smile,  saying,  "  Prince 
Ahmed,  you  are  welcome." 

Ahmed  paid  his  respects  to  her  in  the  best  manner  he  was 
able ;  for  such  a  succession  of  wonders  had  thrown  him  into 
confusion.  He  thanked  her  for  bidding  him  welcome  to  that 
elegant  retreat,  where  he  had  reason  to  fear  he  was  an  in 
truder,  and  rejoiced  that  he  had  the  honor  to  be  known  by  so 
charming  a  lady.  They  drew  near  the  palace,  and  the  lady 
invited  him  to  go  in  and  hear  where  Ae  was,  and  how  sW 
came  to  know  him. 

When  they  entered  the  hall,  the  lady  said  to  him,  "  You  arc 
mrprised,  Ahmed,  that  I,  whom  you  have  never  seen  before, 
should  know  you.  To  remove  this  wonder,  learn  then  that  1 


1)94  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

fcra  &  fairy,  da  jghter  to  one  of  the  most  powerful  genis,  wh<$ 
your  religion  teaches  yju,  inhabit  the  world,  as  well  as  men, 
My  name  is  Paribanon.  I  am  acquainted  with  all  the  atfain 
of  your  father's  court.  I  sold  you  the  artificial  apple.  Ali 
bought  his  perspective  glass,  and  Houssain  his  tapestry,  of 
me.  I  am  not,  you  find,  unacquainted  with  your  concerns. 
You  seemed  to  me  more  worthy  of  a  more  happy  fate,  than 
that  of  possessing  the  princess  Nouronnihar,  whose  husband 
will  never  mount  a  throne.  I  was  present  when  you  drew 
your  arrow,  and,  foreseeing  it  would  fall  short  of  prince  Hous- 
sain's,  I  took  it  in  the  air,  and  conveyed  it  to  the  rocks  where 
you  found  it.  By  this  means  I  have  ed  you  hither.  And  it 
will  be  much  your  own  fault  if  this  visit  does  not  fix  your 
happiness  on  the  most  permanent  basis." 

The  fairy  pronounced  these  words  in  the  most  tender  man- 
ner, glancing  affectionately  at  the  prince,  yet  covered  with 
modest  confusion.  Ahmed  was  too  penetrating  to  be  at  a  loss 
in  understanding  the  beautiful  fairy.  Paribanon  as  far  excelled 
the  princess  in  loveliness  of  person,  in  sprightly  wit,  and  en- 
gaging deportment,  as  she  did  in  power  and  in  splendor. 
Ahmed  rejoiced  at  his  late  disappointment ;  and  resigning  his 
whole  heart  to  the  charming  Paribanon,  he  threw  himself  at 
her  feet,  and  professed  himself  happy  in  being  admitted  her 
slave. 

The  sensible  fairy  then  raised  him  up,  and  said,  *  My  dear 
Ahmed,  I  did  not  bring  you  here  to  be  my  slave,  but  my  hus- 
band. You  will  not  wonder  I  am  thus  frank  with  you,  when  I 
tell  you  that  we  fairies  are  exempt  from  that  trifling  coquetry 
which  is  most  to  be  found  in  the  weakest  of  mortal  females.** 
The  prince  on  his  knees  seized  her  hand,  and  ravished  it  with 
kisses.  "  I  pledge  my  faith  to  you,  madam,"  said  he,  "  in  the 
most  solemn  manner ;  and  vow  to  devote  my  whole  heart  to 
you  without  the  least  reserve."  "  I  receive  your  faith,  my  dear 
prince,"  replied  the  fairy,  "  and  plight  you  mine  in  return ;  and 
aow,  according  to  the  custom  of  fairies,  you  are  my  husband, 
and  I  am  your  wife.  Our  marriages  are  contracted  withou' 
*ny  other  ceremonies" 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  394 

From  thio  time  prince  Ahmed  lived  with  his  beloved  fairy, 
tnjoying  every  happiness.  The  society  of  his  charming  Pari- 
banon,  whose  virtues  and  elegant  manners  continually  in- 
creased his  attachment  to  her,  gave  him  the  most  rational  and 
heart-felt  delight. 

Several  months  passed  away  in  this  manner ;  when  the 
recollection  of  his  father,  whom  Ahmed  always  loved  and  hon- 
ored, and  the  consideration  of  the  pain  the  sultan  must  suffer 
in  his  absence,  broke  in  upon  the  prince's  felicity.  He  men- 
tioned these  reflections  to  the  fairy,  and  expressed  a  great 
desire  to  pay  his  father  a  visit ;  but  Paribanon  upbraided  him, 
that  his  affection  for  her  was  growing  cool.  She  was  so  much 
affected  at  this  idea,  that  it  was  with  difficulty  the  prince  could 
pacify  her  by  the  most  earnest  assurance  of  unceasing  love, 
and  by  renouncing  all  thoughts  of  visiting  the  sultan. 

Notwithstanding  Paribanon's  jealousy,  that  prince  de- 
served all  his  son's  attention.  It  was  with  the  greatest  reluc- 
tance, that  he  had  decided  the  contest  between  his  sons ;  dread- 
ing those  consequences  which  followed  that  event.  He  was 
soon  informed  of  the  resolution  of  prince  Houssain,  and  of  the 
retreat  which  he  had  chosen.  And  though  he  regretted  this 
determination  of  his  eldest  son,  yet  the  knowledge  of  his  situa- 
tion afforded  him  some  comfort.  But  of  prince  Ahmed  he 
could  obtain  no  information.  He  even  applied  to  a  sorceress 
of  great  abilities,  to  inquire  after  him.  Yet,  with  the  utmost 
exertions,  she  could  only  learn  that  he  was  yet  alive ;  but  not 
the  least  particular  of  his  present  situation.  This  uncertainty 
was  the  cause  of  great  sorrow  to  the  sultan. 

Although  Ahmed  gave  up  his  wish  to  visit  his  father,  in 
compliance  with  the  desire  of  the  fairy,  yet  he  could  not 
refrain  from  frequently  mentioning  him,  and  never  without  a 
sigh.  This  conduct  excited  reflection  in  the  breast  of  Pariba- 
uon.  She  considered  that  she  had  no  reason  to  doubt  the 
affection  of  her  husband,  who  appeared  every  day  more  fond 
of  her ;  but  how  long  that  affection  would  last,  if  she  kept  hin? 
mdor  perpetual  restraint,  she  had  just  cause  to  fear.  She  wat 


896  ARABIAN    NIGHTb 

naturally  very  benevolent ;  and  the  consideration  that  &ne  pro 
vented  a  worthy  son  from  wiping  away  the  tears  of  an  affec- 
tionate father,  shed  on  his  account,  was  more  than  she  could 
bear.  "  I  am  sensible,  my  dear  Ahmed,"  said  she  one  day  to 
the  prince,  "  of  the  restraint  you  put  upon  yourself,  in  sup- 
pressing your  wishes  to  visit  your  royal  father.  When  I  first 
refused  you,  I  was  induced  to  do  so,  by  the  tender  fear  lest  the 
naturally  volatile  disposition  of  a  young  man  might  lead  you 
to  forsake  me.  But  I  should  not  deserve  your  tenderness,  i£ 
after  your  having  thus  long  made  me  so  great  a  sacrifice,  I 
could  doubt  your  constancy  and  steady  affection.  Go  then, 
pay  your  duty  to  the  sultan ;  and  let  him  know  you  will  attend 
him  for  that  purpose  every  month.  Do  not,  however,  let  me 
long  regret  your  absence  ;  nor  on  any  account,  acquaint  your 
father  with  your  marriage,  or  where  you  reside.  Beg  of  hio» 
to  be  satisfied  in  knowing  you  are  happy." 

Ahmed  expressed  the  most  lively  gratitude  to  the  fairy,  and 
promised  to  observe  all  her  instructions.  The  next  morning  he 
set  forward  for  the  sultan's  court,  attended  by  twenty  gentle- 
men, well  mounted.  They  soon  arrived  at  the  city,  where 
Ahmed  was  received  by  the  people  with  acclamations  of  joy. 
When  he  arrived  at  the  palace,  his  father  embraced  him  with 
great  affection,  kindly  chiding  him  for  his  absence,  and  in- 
quiring what  had  befallen  him.  The  prince  told  him  that  he 
had  found  his  arrow  as  far  oft  as  the  black  rocks ;  and  that  the 
search  after  it  had  been  attended  with  an  adventure  that  had 
made  him  contented  and  happy  ;  but  entreated  the  sultan  not 
to  insist  on  knowing  the  particulars.  The  tender  father  cheer- 
fully acquiesced ;  and  after  three  days,  Ahmed  took  his  leave 
promising  to  renew  his  visit  at  the  end  of  the  month. 

Ahmed  returned  to  the  fairy,  who  received  him  very  joy- 
fully. Every  month  he  renewed  his  visit  to  his  father's  court, 
each  time  attended  more  splendidly  than  before.  For  a  long 
lime,  the  sultan  had  great  pleasure  in  these  visits ;  but  ?ome 
tf  the  busy  parasites  who  infest  every  court,  began  to  instil 
jealousies  into  his  mind,  under  pretence  of  concern  for  hii 


ENTKRTAINMENTS.  * 

lafety,  which  destroyed  all  his  happiness,  and  ended  raosi 
fatally.  They  observed  to  the  sultan,  that  on  every ^visit,  the 
prince  came  attended  by  a  different  retinue.  That  the  num« 
ber  of  his  retainers,  therefore,  must  be  very  considerable,  and 
the  magnificence  of  their  appearance  every  time  increasing, 
showed  their  master's  wealth  was  inexhaustible.  Nor  was  this 
all.  The  freshness  of  their  clothes,  and  the  spirit  of  then 
hcrses,  sufficiently  proved  that  they  came  not  far.  "  If,  ther*> 
fore,"  said  they,  "  the  prince,  (who  everybody  knows  was  ex- 
tremely mortified  at  losing  Nouronnihar)  should  choose  to 
resent  that  decision,  or  even  to  seize  the  crown,  he  seems  to 
have  sufficient  power  near  at  hand,  to  execute  such  an  entei 
prise.  At  least,  therefore,  it  would  be  prudent  to  find  out  the 
place  of  his  retirement,  which  he  so  carefully  conceals." 

The  sultan  of  the  Indies  for  some  time  seemed  to  pay  no  at 
tention  to  these  remonstrances,  but  they  made  the  deepest  im- 
pression on  his  mind.  The  shouts  of  applause  which  the 
people  gave  to  the  prince,  whenever  he  was  seen  in  the  city 
became  now  a  torment  to  the  sultan.  He  became  jealous  of 
his  worthy  son ;  and  though  he  concealed  from  every  one  as 
much  as  possible,  his  ill-founded  disgust,  yet  he  resolved  to  dis- 
cover his  retreat.  For  this  purpose,  he  applied  to  the  soi 
ceress  he  had  formerly  consulted,  and  engaged  her  to  watch 
his  son,  and  bring  him  word  where  he  retired. 

The  sorceress  hid  herself  among  the  black  rocks,  till  she  sav* 
the  prince  and  his  attendants  pass  by  her.  She  continued  look- 
ing after  them,  when  all  on  a  sudden  they  disappeared.  She 
followed  them  to  the  breaks  of  the  rocks,  and  examined  them 
with  the  greatest  attention  on  each  side,  till  she  came  to  the 
farther  end,  without  being  able  to  discover  the  iron  door 
through  which  the  prince  and  his  retinue  had  passed  ;  for  that 
was  seen  only  by  those  whom  the  fairy  Paribanon  wished  to 
receive. 

The  magician  returned  disappointed  ;  but  when  the  prince's 
next  monthly  visL  drew  near,  she  returned  to  the  rocks,  and 
*§  soon  as  his  train  approached  her,  she  contrived  to  lie  eu 

34 


$98  AT? -\niAN    NIGHTS' 

lAe  side  of  the  road,  and  appear  as  it'  expiring.  Ahmed  ww 
BO  move^l.  at  her  supposed  distress,  that  he  ordered  her  to  be 
taken  up,  and  returned  with  all  his  attendants  through  the  iron 
gate,  and  besought  the  fairy  to  assist  her. 

Paribanon  ordered  the  sorceress  to  be  led  away,  and  sup 
plied  witL  whatever  she  stood  hi  need  of.  Then  turning  to  tlu 
prince,  she  said,  "  I  admire,  my  dear  Ahmed,  the  goodness  oi 
your  heart ;  but  in  this  instance,  I  fear  it  will  operate  to  your 
prejudice.  This  woman  is  an  impostor.  She  is  not  sick ;  and 
whatever  her  vi^ws  are  in  persuading  you  to  think  so,  they 
cannot  certainly  be  friendly  ones."  "  I  never,"  replied  the 
prince,  "  did,  or  intended  any  injury  to  any  one  ;  nor  can  I  sup- 
pose any  one  would  injure  me.  But  if  I  am  mistaken,  and 
have  an  enemy,  I  will  not  therefore  withhold  from  doing  good, 
whenever  I  have  an  opportunity."  He  then  again  took  leave 
of  the  fairy,  and  set  forward  for  the  city. 

The  sorceress  having  discovered  the  prince's  retreat,  pi  ex- 
tended to  be  much  recovered  by  the  medicines  which  had  been 
given  her ;  she  begged  leave  to  return  thanks  to  Parikuion, 
and  to  pursue  her  journey. 

The  fairy  received  her,  sitting  on  her  throne  of  massy  gold, 
and  surrounded  with  the  utmost  splendor.  After  she  had  paid 
her  compliments,  the  fairy  ordered  two  of  her  attendants  to 
show  her  the  palace,  and  then  to  permit  her  to  depart.  They 
led  her  accordingly  through  all  the  apartments,  and  displayed 
befcre  her  such  a  profusion  of  riches  as  she  had  no  idea  of. 
For  Paribanon,  having  no  doubt  but  she  came  as  a  spy  from 
seme  enemy  of  her  husband,  was  determined  she  should  go 
away  with  such  an  idea  of  his  situation  as  should  excite  re- 
apect,  if  not  awe.  The  sorceress  was  then  conducted  to  the 
iron  gate  and  dismissed  ;  but  what  much  troubled  her  was,  that 
though  she  turned  round  immediately  to  mark  the  gate,  it  had 
become  invisible ;  and  on  turning  a  second  time,  she  found 
herself  at  the  entrance  of  the  rocks,  far  beyond  the  place  *vhere 
ihd  prince  took  pity  on  her. 

From  the  time  the  sultan  had  suffered  himself  tc  be  irritated 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  39$ 

against  his  son,  he  had  neglected  to  consul  with  nis  old  and 
faithful  vizier ;  he  had  given  himself  up  to  a  cabal  of  interested 
advisers,  who  sought  only  to  promote  their  own  profit  by  a 
pretended  zeal  for  their  master's  safety.  To  them  he  private- 
ly introduced  the  sorceress,  and  heard  her  report  in  their 
presence. 

If  the  weak  sultan  feared  his  son  before,  this  account  of  hii 
unbounded  wealth  made  him  envy  and  hate  him.  His  ad* 
risers  were  at  no  loss  to  discover  this,  and  every  one,  to  gain 
his  master's  favor,  seemed  to  outvie  the  other  in  proposing 
violent  measures.  Some  counselled,  as  the  prince  was  now 
on  the  spot,  to  cut  him  off  without  delay.  The  most  lenient 
wished  him  and  his  attendants  imprisoned  for  life.  Amidst 
\hese  desperate  proposals  the  sorceress  begged  leave  to  offer  a 
different  expedient. 

"An  attempt  to  destroy  prince  Ahmed  by  violence,  pro- 
tected as  he  is  by  a  retinue  of  fairies  and  genii,  would  not 
only  be  in  vain,  but  would  certainly  excite  the  vengeance  of 
Paribanon.  I  would  recommend  a  very  different  conduct  to- 
wards him  :  let  the  prince  know  you  are  acquainted  with  his 
having  married  a  fairy,  and  engage  him  to  task  her  power  in 
procuring  certain  advantages  for  you.  If  he  succeeds  with 
the  first,  you  have  to  go  on  demanding  something  still  nure 
difficult,  till  you  tire  out  his  patience,  and  he  will  then  cease 
ihese  dangerous  visits,  which  give  him  so  much  influence  over 
the  people." 

Every  one  approved  of  this  advice,  an.d,  agreeable  to  it,  the 
sultan,  next  day,  with  an  air  of  good  humor,  congratulated  his 
son  on  his  marriage  with  a  fairy.  "  I  rejoice,"  said  he,  "  at 
this  fortunate  connection,  and  must  beg  you  will  not  deny  me 
your  influence  with  your  wife,  in  a  matter  I  have  so  much  at 
heart.  I  want  a  pavilion,  that  may  be  carried  in  a  man's 
band,  and  yet  be  large  enough  to  cover  a  numerous  army. 
5Tou  will  oblige  me  greatly,  if  you  will  persuade  your  wife  to 
furnish  me  with  such  a  one." 

Prince  Ahmed  heard  with  surprise  and  pleasure  thai  hit 


100  ARABIAN    NIG  ITS* 

father  knew  of  his  nuptials,  and  approved  them  but  when  h* 
came  to  urge  so  extraordinary  a  demand,  the  poor  prince  was 
overwhelmed  with  confusion.  He  was  very  desirous  of  being 
excused ;  but  finding  the  sultan  pressed  the  thing  upon  him 
u  Your  commands,  sir,"  said  he,  "  are  a  law  to  me.  I  will  ask 
this  extraordinary  thing  of  my  wife,  though  it  will  be  with 
great  reluctance.  If  I  succeed,  I  will  return  immediately ;  11 
1  fail,  you  will  know  I  have  done  so,  by  my  paying  my  re- 
fpects  to  you  no  more." 

Ahmed  took  leave  of  the  sultan,  with  much  discomposure* 
On  his  return  home,  Paribanon  presently  saw  something  had 
happened  to  displease  him.  In  answer  to  her  inquiries,  he 
told  her  the  demand  his  father  had  made,  and  his  uneasiness 
in  consequence  of  it.  "I  have  ever,"  continued  he,  "been 
happy  in  loving  you,  and  being  loved  by  you  ;  and  have  care- 
fully avoided  tasking  your  power ;  nor  should  anything  have 
induced  me  to  do  it,  but  the  command  of  a  father.  What 
vexes  me  most  is  the  request  he  has  made,  at  once  exorbitant 
in  the  idea,  and  impossible  to  be  complied  with."  Paribanon 
heard  him  with  a  smile,  and  after  praising  the  delicacy  of  his 
love,  she  despatched  a  slave  to  her  treasurer,  with  orders  to 
send  one  of  her  smallest  pavilions.  The  slave  presently  re- 
turned with  it  in  her  hand,  and  presented  it  to  her  rnistra*, 
who  gave  it  to  her  husband. 

Ahmed  received  it  with  a  look  of  incredulity ;  but  the  fair} 
soon  convinced  him  of  his  mistake,  by  ordering  it  to  be  fixed 
up.  Next  morning  he  returned  to  court,  and  presented  it  to 
his  father.  The  sultan,  little  imagining  there  could  be  such  ft 
thing  as  the  tent  he  had  asked  for,  was  surprised  to  see  him. 
He  received  it  from  Ahmed,  and  ordered  it  to  be  set  up  in  th« 
plain,  when  he  found  it  large  enough  to  shelter  an  army  twice 
as  numerous  as  he  could  bring  into  the  field.  The  prince 
increased  his  wonder,  by  telling  him,  that  he  could  make  it 
tiwger  or  smaller,  by  a  wish,  according  to  the  army  it  was  to 
cover. 

\Lirza  received  his  son's  curious  present  with  cold  civility, 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4Qi 

luid  in  liis  heart  conceived  a  still  greater  hatred  aid  jealousy 
of  him.  He  again  consulted  the  sorceress,  and,  by  her  advice, 
he  addressed  him  in  the  evening,  before  the  whole  court,  and 
besought  him  to  obtain  for  him  some  of  the  water  of  the  foun- 
tain of  Lions.  "  The  dangers  he  must  face  to  obtain  this  water," 
gaid  the  sorceress,  "  are  so  many,  that  it  Is  hardly  possible  he 
should  escape  them.  And,  if  he  falls,  your  majesty  will  bn 
happily  rid  of  him." 

When  Ahmed,  on  his  return  home,  related  this  new  demand 
cf  his  father  to  Paribanon,  she  addressed  him  thus :  "  I  am 
now  convinced,  my  dear  Ahmed,  that  the  affections  of  tha 
sultan  are  alienated  from  you,  and  that  he  meditates  your 
destruction.  This  water  can  only  be  obtained  at  your  OWE 
risk,  not  by  my  power.  From  most  of  the  dangers  attend- 
ing the  attempt,  I  can  protect  you ;  but  I  cannot  preserve  the 
sultan  from  the  punishment  which  awaits  him,  if  he  persists  in 
his  unnatural  conduct." 

"  The  fountain  of  Lions  is  situated  in  the  middle  of  a  court, 
the  entrance  of  which  is  guarded  by  four  lions.  You  must 
have  two  horses,  one  of  which  you  must  ride ;  and,  on  the 
other,  which  you  must  lead,  put  a  sheep,  killed  to-day,  and 
divided  into  four  quarters.  Take  also  a  bottle  to  fill  with  the 
water.  Set  off  early  to-morrow  morning,  and,  when  you  have 
passed  the  iron  gate,  throw  this  clew  of  thread  on  the  ground. 
Follow  it  exactly,  and  you  will  escape  all  other  difficulties. 
till  you  come  to  a  pair  of  large  folding  doors,  which  will  open 
at  your  approach.  You  will  then  see  the  lions  ;  throw  to  each 
a  quarter  of  the  sheep,  as  you  ride  towards  them ;  fill  youf 
bottle  with  all  possible  expedition,  while  they  are  eating :  whei» 
you  have  accomplished  this,  you  may  return  without  appre 
tension,  as  the  lions  will  not  then  attempt  to  hurt  you." 

The  prince  obeyed  the  fairy's  directions,  and  succeeded 
On  his  return  he  found  that  two  of  the  lions  followed  him 
He  turned  about  and  drew  his  sabre  to  defend  himself  \>u* 
he  soon  found  that  unnecessary;  thv*  lions  approached  witi 
Vhe  utmost  gentleness,  one  passing  by  him  went  before, 

34* 


402  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

Ike  other  followed ;  and  thus  guarded  him  till  ht,  came  to  hi* 
father's  capital,  where  they  disappeared. 

He  presented  the  sultan  with  the  bottle  of  water,  which  hf 
had  procured  with  so  much  danger.  That  prince  appeared  to 
be  in  raptures  at  his  son's  obedience  and  success.  But  the 
hatred  he  had  so  causelessly  entertained  against  his  dutiful 
son,  now  became  inveterate.  In  the  evening  he  sent  for  (he 
sorceress,  and  in  a  rage  charged  her,  as  she  valued  her  life,  to 
invent  a  task  for  Ahmed,  which  was  not  to  be  thus  easily 
accomplished.  She  was  terrified  at  the  threats  of  the  sultan. 
tf  Sir,"  said  she,  "  I  can  point  out  a  task  for  the  prince,  which 
will  be  attended  with  the  utmost  danger ;  but,  if  he  succeeds, 
I  tremble  for  the  consequences  to  you  and  to  myself."  "  No 
matter,"  replied  the  sultan,  hastily,  "  no  matter  for  the  conse- 
quences to  me ;  and,  as  to  you,  I  will  put  you  to  death  this 
instant,  if  you  do  not  point  out  this  adventure,  which  may 
relieve  me  from  a  hated  rival,  by  whom  J  am  every  day  more 
and  more  eclipsed. 

The  sorceress  obeyed,  and  the  sultan,  fully  instructed,  re- 
ceived his  son  the  next  morning  with  a  smile,  and  said  to  him, 
"  I  have  one  more  favor  to  request  of  you,  and  I  desire  you 
will  use  your  interest  with  the  fairy,  your  wife,  to  gratify  me ; 
after  which  I  will  no  more  exact  anything  from  your  obedi- 
ence, or  her  power.  Bring  me  a  man,  not  above  a  foot  and  a 
half  high,  whose  beard  is  thirty  feet  long,  and  who  carries  an 
iron  bar  of  five  hundred  weight,  which  he  uses  as  a  quarter 
staff."  Prince  Ahmed  bowed,  and  withdrew  in  silence. 

On  his  return  home  he  told  Paribanon,  with  great  sorrow, 
what  had  passed.  "  I  am  now,"  said  he,  "  too  well  assured 
that  my  father  is  become  my  enemy,  and  seeks  these  extraor- 
dinary demands  to  effect  my  destruction ;  but,  as  he  declares 
this  shall  be  his  last  request,  let  me,  my  dear  fairy,  if  this  task 
be  not  too  difficult,  entreat  your  assistance."  "  Nothing,"  re- 
plied Paribanon,  u  can  be  more  easy  than  for  you  to  fulfil  this 
command.  This  man  is  my  brother,  Schaibar.  His  disposi- 
tier  is  vdry  different  from  mine.  His  nature  is  crabbed  and 


EK  TERTAINMENTS.  40* 

riolent,  and  his  resentment  always  fatal ;  yet,  if  aot  provoked* 
He  is  kind  and  obliging.  I  will  send  for  him  immediately 
but  be  sure  to  prepare  yourself  for  his  appearance,  and  tak* 
especial  care  not  to  show  fear  at  his  singular  and  very  forbid- 
ding figure." 

"Ah!  my  lovely  fairy,"  replied  Ahmed,  "if  Schaihar  h 
yaur  brother,  let  his  person  be  ever  so  disagreeable,  I  car 
never  see  him  but  with  sentiments  of  respect  and  affection." 

Paribanon  ordered  a  gold  chafing-dish  to  be  set,  with  a  fire 
in  it,  under  the  porch  of  the  palace ;  and  throwing  in  some 
perfume,  there  arose  a  thick  cloud  of  smoke,  soon  after  which 
the  fairy  said  to  Ahmed,  "  See !  my  brother  comes."  The 
prince  immediately  saw  Schaibar  approaching,  his  heavy  bar 
on  his  shoulder,  his  beard  wound  around  him,  a  pair  of  thick 
mustachios  which  he  tucked  behind  his  ears,  that  almost  covered 
his  face ;  his  little  eyes  set  deep  in  his  head,  which  was  very 
large,  and  on  which  he  wore  a  grenadier's  cap.  He  was  hump- 
backed, and  his  whole  appearance  the  most  ferocious  that  could 
be  imagined. 

Such  a  tremendous  figure  on  any  other  occasion,  would  have 
terrified  Ahmed  exceedingly ;  but  being  prepared  for  his  coming, 
and  knowing  who  he  was,  the  prince  stood  by  Paribanon  with 
the  utmost  composure.  Schaibar,  as  he  came  forward,  looked 
at  Ahmed  in  such  a  manner  as  was  enough  to  freeze  his  blood ; 
and  asked  Paribanon,  when  he  first  accosted  her,  "  who  that 
man  was  ?  "  to  which  she  replied,  "  he  is  my  husband,  brother : 
the  reason  I  did  not  invite  you  to  see  him  sooner,  is,  that  1 
was  unwilling  to  interrupt  you  in  an  expedition  you  were 
engaged  in,  and  from  which  I  hear  with  pleasure  that  you 
have  lately  returned  successful."  Schaibar  then  looked  fa  vox* 
ably  on  Ahmed,  and  offered  to  do  him  any  service  in  his 
power.  The  prince  thanked  him ;  and  the  fairy  added,  "  the 
sultan,  his  father,  has  a  desire  to  see  you ;  I  request  you  will 
let  him  be  your  guide  to  the  court  to-morrow." 

The  next  morning,  after  having  been  fully  informed  of  all 
tfcat  had  passed,  Schaibar  set  forward  with  Ahmed  for  thi 


104  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

lultan's  palace.  As  they  approached  the  city,  the  peo{  le  fled 
oefore  them  in  dismay ;  and  communicating  their  fears  to  all 
they  met,  the  streets  were  abandoned. 

Even  the  guards  of  the  royal  palace  ran  away.  There  was 
no  one  to  conduct  them  to  the  sultan,  so  that  the  prince  and 
Sohaibar  advanced  unexpected  into  the  council  chamber,  where 
fhe  sultan  was  giving  audience.  Every  one  drew  back  in 
terror  Schaibar  advanced  to  the  throne,  without  waiting  to 
be  introduced  by  the  prince.  "  Thou  hast  asked  for  me,"  said 
be  to  the  sultan,  fiercely,  "  here  I  am !  what  wouldst  thou 
have  with  me  ? "  The  terrified  sultan,  instead  of  answering 
him,  clapped  his  hands  before  his  eyes,  to  shut  out  the  sight 
of  so  fearful  an  object.  Schaibar,  enraged  at  this  insult,  in- 
stantly lifted  up  his  iron  beam  and  killed  him,  before  Ahmed 
could  interpose  in  his  behalf.  He  continued  dealing  about  his 
fatal  blows  till  he  had  destroyed  every  one  of  the  prince's 
enemies.  He  then  commanded  the  grand  vizier  to  introduce 
the  sorceress,  who  had  been  so  active  in  promoting  the  prince's 
destruction.  She  was  brought  before  him  in  the  utmost  terror 
As  soon  as  she  was  within  his  reach,  he  gave  her  a  stroke 
with  his  iron  bar,  saying,  "  take  the  reward  of  thy  pernicious 
councils,  and  learn  to  feign  sickness  again." 

Schaibar  then  ordered  the  grand  vizier,  and  the  remaining 
officers  of  the  court,  to  proclaim  prince  Ahmed  sultan  of  the 
Indies,  and,  sending  for  his  sister,  Paribanon,  he  caused  her 
and  her  husband  to  be  clothed  with  the  royal  vestments,  an<? 
seated  on  the  throne.  Houssain  had  retired  from  the  world 
And  Ali,  happy  in  the  possession  of  his  beloved  Nouronnihar 
had  no  desire  to  oppose  his  brother  Ahmed  and  his  terrible 
ally.  He  contented  himself  with  an  opulent  province,  whicL 
Ms  brother  bestowed  upon  him ;  and  Ahmed,  with  his  charm 
ing  fairy,  swayed  the  sceptre  of  the  Indies  without  opposition 


ENTERTAINMENTS. 

of  Habib  and  Doratil-goase,  or  the  Ai  Man  Knight. 

THE  tribe  of  Ben-Hilac,  the  most  numerous  and  valiant  ia 
til  Arabia,  was  formerly  governed  by  Emir-Ben-Hilac-Salamis, 
the  most  famous  man  of  that  age  for  courage,  military  talents, 
piety,  probity,  and  in  a  word  for  all  those  great  qualities  which 
accomplish  the  character  of  the  statesman  and  the  warrior 
He  was  the  acknowledged  chief  of  sixty -six  tribes,  over  whom 
tie  reigned  with  wisdom,  and  among  whom  his  administration 
was  deservedly  popular.  He  had  been  prosperous  in  war,  and 
not  less  so  in  peace.  He  had  passed  the  prime  of  life,  and  had 
uo  favor  to  ask  of  heaven  in  order  to  complete  his  felicity, 
unless  a  son  who  might  inherit  his  glory  and  his  power. 

In  the  festival  of  Haraphat,  Salamis  continually  heaped  the 
altar  with  victims,  prostrated  himself  upon  the  threshold  of  the 
tabernacle,  addressed  his  prayers  to  the  holy  prophet,  and  still 
waited  with  respectful  resignation  for  the  time  when  the  will 
of  heaven  should  favor  him  with  a  blessing  so  essential  to  his 
happiness.  Having  one  day  offered  a  more  than  ordinary  pro- 
fusion of  sacrifices,  he  felt  his  mind  suddenly  impressed  with 
'U  pleasing  hope  that  his  wishes  would  be  fulfilled.  His  hopes 
were  not  in  vain.  Amirala,  his  wife,  soon  after  found  herself 
pregnant,  and  within  nine  months  that  princess  was  delivered 
of  a  male  child,  whose  beauty  equalled  that  of  the  brightest 
luminary  which  in  the  evenings  of  summer  supplies  the  ab- 
sence of  the  sun.  Amirala  took  the  child  in  her  arms,  and 
caressed  him  with  mingled  emotions  of  tender  love  and  rap- 
turous joy. 

"  Lovely  chiki,"  said  she ;  "  charming  emblem  of  the  fail 
tree  whose  fruit  thou  art,  may  my  kisses  be  salutary  to  thee  as 
the  rays  of  the  sun  are  to  the  budding  plant.  Come  to  my 
breast,  receive  the  nourishment  which  the  tenderness  of  a 
mother  gladly  offers. 

"  And  thou,  great  prophet !  Thou,  into  whose  hands  the 
Most  High  has  committed  the  key  of  the  treasure  of  celestial 
!  Thou,  to  whom  we  owe  this  dearest  pledge  <>t  love 


106  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

pour  upon  him  the  oenignant  influence  of  thy  sacred  spirit  I  at 
khy  powerful  voice  may  the  bravest,  the  brightest,  and  yet  the 
mildest  star  of  heaven  assume  the  care  of  his  destiny ! 

"  Ye  happy  tribes  who  inhabit  the  smiling  plains  of  Arabia ! 
it  is  to  you  that  Habib  is  given !     Come,  view  the  head  of  my 
young  cedar !  you  will  distinguish  it  rising  above  all  the  rest 
rejoice !  rejoice !  ye  .happy  tribes  !    One  day  shall  it  cover  you 
with  its  shade." 

While  Amirala  thus  celebrated  the  bounty  of  the  Almighty, 
the  emir  assembled  all  the  wise  men  of  the  nation,  and  made 
them  inquire  of  the  stars  concerning  the  destiny  of  his  son. 
In  the  hour  of  his  birth  the  eyes  of  all  the  astrologers  were 
raised  to  the  azure  vault  of  heaven.  They  beheld  a  combat 
In  the  fields  above.  One  constellation  appeared  to  oppose 
another ;  one  very  bright  star  was  alternately  darkened,  hid, 
%nd  extinguished  like  those  meteors  which  are  sometimes  seen 
gliding  through  the  air ;  yet  it  still  maintained  its  place,  and 
within  a  few  moments  broke  out  with  new  lustre,  and  appeared 
in  the  most  auspicious  conjunction. 

The  eldest  of  the  astrologers  then  spoke  :  "  Prince,"  said  he 
to  Salamis,  "  your  son  will  be  glorious,  and  admired  in  life ; 
but  never  mortal  passed  through  such  dangers  as  he  must 
meet.  Perils  and  misfortunes  await  him,  but  wonderful  will 
be  his  resources  amidst  every  combination  of  difficulties.  Love 
and  glory  are  at  last  to  crown  his  toils,  if  his  courage  and  vigoi 
shall  surmount  every  trial." 

"  What  a  wayward  destiny ! "  returned  the  emir.  u  Can  no 
means  be  employed  to  disappoint  its  severity  ?  "  "  Prince,  we 
assure  you,  the  great  planet,  and  the  seven  around  it,  did  not 
appear  in  harmonious  concord.  They  seemed  to  exert  all  their 
powers  in  order  to  bring  assistance  to  the  star  of  your  son,  or 
to  counteract  its  noxious  influence.  Dreadful  was  the  contest, 
\nd  as  Habib's  star  has  again  appeared,  you  may  entertain 
Rome  degree  of  hope.  The  dangers  which  he  is  to  encounter 
Dave  been  clearly  displayed  to  us,  but  as  man  may  so  far  eliid<? 
the  strokes  of  fate,  the  virtues  of  Habib  must  avert  the  unp  ^ 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  407 

pitiocB  influence  with  which  he  is  threatened,  and  compel  hif 
itar  to  be  more  favorable  to  him." 

Salamis  was  a  man  of  the  greatest  fortitude,  and  at  lie  samr 
time  of  the  greatest  resignation. 

"  The  misfortunes  which  await  my  son  will  surely  not  exceed 
what  the  strength  of  humanity  is  able  to  bear.  Let  me  fonr 
him  to  manly  energy  of  character,  and  sow  the  seeds  of  everj 
virtue  in  his  heart.  Amirala  will  second  my  intentions,  anc* 
by  our  joint  lessons  and  example,  we  shall  prepare  him  t€ 
irample  upon  every  danger  that  may  rise  up  before  him." 

Hardly  was  Habib  circumcised,  and  taught  to  articulate  a 
few  words,  when  his  tender  orgavis,  instead  of  uttering  a  sense- 
less prattle,  pronounced  his  confession  of  faith.  He  already 
blessed  the  Creator  of  the  world,  Mohammed  his  apostle 
heaven,  earth,  the  animated  beings  inhabiting  these  worlds,  and 
the  wide  immensities  of  space  by  which  they  are  separated. 
He  made  the  letters  of  the  alphabet  his  play-things,  and  learned 
to  arrange  them  into  words,  and  these  words  soon  after  into 
sentences.  His  mimic  houses  were  imitations  of  mosques ;  his 
sports,  his  fancies,  and  his  early  propensities,  all  showed  a 
mind  above  the  ordinary  rank. 

Soon  as  his  body  acquired  strength,  he  observed  no  set  hours 
for  his  meals.  It  was  necessary  that  he  should  be  acquainted 
with  want,  that  tyrant  of  humanity ;  and  to  teach  him  to  bear 
it  without  murmuring,  he  was  from  time  to  time  partially  ex- 
posed to  it.  It  was  necessary  that  he  should  accustom  himself 
to  difficulties  ;  the  mattress  upon  which  he  used  to  sleep  was, 
therefore,  taken  away,  and  he  was  left  to  lie  upon  the  baro 
ground.  He  was  exposed  occasionally  to  the  inclemency  of 
ibs  seasons,  that  his  body  might  not  afterwards  be  too  much 
affected  by  their  severity. 

He  was  taught  to  mount  the  most  fiery  and  the  most  ur- 
manageable  young  horses.  His  address  having  been  previously 
exercised  in  adventures  of  less  danger,  he  soon  surmounted  the 
difficulties  which  at  first  attended  this.  If  he  happened  by  auy 
accident  to  lose  his  seat,  his  agility  soon  enabled  him  to  recover 


108  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

!t  Thus  did  Amirala  form  the  body  of  h<;r  pupil.  At  sever 
yvjars  of  age,  he  excelled  all  his  little  companions  in  vigor  and 
activity.  His  'heart  and  understanding  were  not  neglected ;  he 
could  recite  all  the  chapters  of  the  Koran,  and  explain  their 
meaning.  He  was  taught  by  his  mother  to  view  the  wonders 
of  nature  with  enthusiastic  admiration,  and  could  already  de- 
scribe its  beauties.  It  became  time  for  Salamis  to  think  of  per- 
leo.ting  an  education  which  had  been  so  happily  begun.  But, 
in  order  to  this,  it  was  necessary  that  he  should  find  an  instruc- 
tor as  well  qualified  to  form  his  youth,  as  Amirala  had  shown 
herself  to  tutor  his  infancy.  There  was  in  the  camp  of  Sala- 
mis an  old  philosopher,  named  Ilfakis,  skilled  in  all  the  sciences, 
and  blameless  in  his  conduct.  But  he  was  at  that  time  afflicted 
by  a  distemper,  which  was  conducting  him  slowly  to  the  tomb. 

*  Ah !  would  God  restore  me  the  sage  Ilfakis,"  said  the  emir 
one  day,  in  the  presence  of  his  minister.     "  How  would  you 
employ  him  ?  "  replied  the  other.     "  I  have  just  come  from  his 
tent.     He  told  me  that  he  had  just  taken  an  elixir,  which  had 
made  him  wonderfully  better.     He  was  standing ;    he  even 
walked  a  few  steps  very  firmly  before  me,  and  I  make  no  doubt 
that  if  you  wish  to  see  him,  he  may  be  able  to  wait  upon  you 
here."    "  Go  ask  him,"  said  the  emir.     "  I  look  upon  his  re- 
covery to  life  as  a  miracle,  wrought  by  heaven  for  my  sake, 
even  more  than  for  his." 

Ilfakis  obeyed  the  emir's  orders,  and  agreed  to  his  proposal. 
Young  Habib  was  committed  to  his  new  master.  They  lived 
together  in  the  same  tent.  The  cares*  of  the  governor  found 

*  soil  so  naturally  happy,  and  so  well  prepared  in  his  young 
pupil's  mind,  that  it  was  fit  to  receive  every  degree  of  cul- 
tivation.    Habib  was  soon  able  to  tell  the  names  of  all  the 
•tars,  to  describe  the  paths  of  the  planets,  and  to  calculate  their 
azes  and  distances.     He  knew  the  various  species  of  trees  and 

*  The  Arabians  were  the  first  who  taught  us  to  study  the  wondroui 
jperations  of  nature ;  they  translated  the  Greek  philosophers.  There  is. 
therefore,  no;hing  improbable  in  what  is  here  related  of  the  education  at 
foong  Habit 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  409 

plants,  and  could  describe  their  properties.  He  cculd  discourse 
of  vegetation,  and  knew  in  what  manner  heat  and  moisture 
produced  fertility.  He  knew  the  sea  to  be  formed  by  the  influx 
of  the  rivers ;  he  could  trace  the  vapors  raised  from  it  by  the 
heat  of  the  sun  to  the  tops  of  the  mountains,  and  there  behold 
them  falling  into  plenteous  springs,  to  perpetuate  the  wonderful 
operations  of  nature.  He  knew  how  to  rank  every  animal  in 
its  proper  class  ;  while  the  wonders  of  instinct  excited  his  sur- 
prise, he  was  pleased  to  see  these  still  in  subordination  to  the 
energies  of  reason. 

While,  with  the  assistance  of  Ilfakis,  he  strove  to  arrange 
in  order  all  this  vast  variety  of  ideas,  he  was  at  the  same  time 
attentive  to  fix  them  in  his  mind,  and  learned  the  art  of  writ- 
ing, with  pens  cut  in  seven  different  ways.*  Salamis,  one 
day,  desired  his  son  to  communicate  to  him  some  part  of  the 
learning  he  had  acquired.  "  Father,"  said  the  youth,  "  you 
must  apply  to  my  master  to  give  you  the  information  you 
desire.  As  for  me,  I  must  long  be  all  eye  and  all  ear.  J 
must  learn  to  use  my  hand,  before  I  begin  to  exercise  my 
tongue,  and  to  write  my  letters  as  pure  as  pearls  from  the 
water."  Salamis,  delighted  with  this  reply,  asked  his  sage 
governor  whether  there  was  anything  else  that  he  could  teacli 
his  son.  "  The  young  prince,"  replied  Ilfakis,  "  never  puts  a 
question  to  me,  but  he  is  well  able  to  anticipate  the  reply.  I 
have  opened  to  his  eyes  the  great  book  of  nature ;  its  wonders 
are  at  each  glance  more  and  more  clearly  unfolded  to  his 
view.  Farther  instruction  would  only  retard  his  progress1 
and  detain  him  needlessly  from  the  scenes  of  active  life.  It  is 
time,  prince,  for  my  pupil  to  begin  his  application  to  those 
arts  which  are  necessary  accomplishments  to  the  man  who  is 
one  day  to  rule  over  sixty-six  warlike  tribes.  In  those  my 

assistance  could  be  of  no  service  to  him.     My  body  must  soon 

• 

*  The  pens  used  by  the  Arabians  are  .reeds.  Whatever  be  the  valua 
they  may  put  upon  the  cutting  of  pens  in  all  these  different  ways,  it  it 
certain  that  they  reckon  it  a  high  merit  to  be  able  to  illuminate  fthfifc 
wtings  skilfully. 

35 


*10  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

retain  to  the  dust,  and  rest  with  its  parent  earth."  u  Why  so 
gloomy  a  presage  ? "  replied  the  emir :  *  you  may  promise 
yourself  many  a  good  year  yet,  and  you  shall  be  liberally 
supplied  with  every  comfort  which  the  infirmities  of  age  re- 
quire. My  treasure  shall  be  entirely  at  your  command." 
*  Prince,"  replied  the  sage,  "  all  the  riches  in  this  world  are 
not  of  more  value  than  a  grain  of  sand,  in  my  eyes.  All  nay 
desires  have  long  since  failed.  This  frail  body,  which  I  have 
no  further  wish  to  preserve,  owes  its  prolonged  existence  solfr 
ly  to  the  secret  views  of  Providence,  in  favor  of  Salamia. 
This  day  is  marked  out  by  destiny  as  the  last  in  which  it  shall 
be  animated.  In  fulfilling  my  duty,  I  have  enjoyed  all  the 
recompense  I  wish  to  receive  here  below."  "  Farewell,  then, 
virtuous  Ilfakis,"  said  the  emir.  "  Receive  my  son's  embraces 
and  mine.  Your  loss  must  cost  us  many  tears,  but  we  will 
soothe  your  distress  by  going  often  to  visit  your  tent."  "  You 
shall  return  there  no  more,"  replied  he.  u  My  tent  is  like  a 
vapor  dispersed  by  the  wind,  and  I  myself,  like  the  dust, 
driven  before  it  in  its  fury.  Farewell,  Salamis  ;  farewell,  my 
dear  Habib.  Think  sometimes  of  me,  amidst  the  difficulties 
with  which  you  are  soon  to  struggle."  Young  Habib  was 
much  affected  at  this  scene ;  but  his  sensibility  was  put  next 
day  to  a  harder  trial.  His  worthy  governor  died  soon  after 
returning  to  his  own  tent.  The  body  was  immediately  inter- 
red, to  free  the  camp  from  the  infection  which  it  produced, 
the  moment  after  it  was  deserted  by  the  spirit  which  had 
animated  it.  Habib  retired,  and  wept  beside  his  mother. 
Amirala  was  pleased  with  his  sensibility,  while  she  strove  to 
console  him.  She  represented  the  things  of  this  earth  as  in- 
Adequate  to  our  felicity,  and  directed  him  to  extend  his  viewa 
beyond  it.  These  consoling  considerations  calmed  young  Ha* 
bib's  sorrow,  but  he  wished  to  pay  the  last  duties  to  his  bene- 
factor, to  strew  some  flowers  on  his  tomb,  and  to  offer  up  his 
prayers  to  the  Most  High,  on  that  hallowed  spot.  He  wenl 
to  Tlfakis's  tent  with  three  emblematic  flowers  in  his  hand, 
His  wml  was  dissolved  in  tender  melancholy.  Tears  flowed 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  41  \ 

•iiently  down  his  cheeks.  He  stood  still  for  a  moment  tc 
indulge  his  grief,  which  was  thus  mingled  with  sweet  affection, 
and  then  expressed  his  feelings  in  these  words : 

"  I  tread  on  the  spot  where  my  dear  Ilfakis  is  laid.  Angela 
of  death,  when  you  approached  to  receive  his  soul,  were  not 
your  hearts  moved  like  mine  ?  O  great  Prophet !  thou  hast 
received  this  virtuous  Mussulman !  Thou  hast  given  him  a 
crown  of  unfading  glory !  O  preserve  these  flowers  from  with- 
ering, which  I  lay  as  crowns  upon  his  dear  remains. 

"  The  soul  of  my  dear  Ilfakis  does  not  wander  here,  othei> 
wise  those  parched  plains  would  smile  with  verdant  plants 
and  blooming  flowers,  just  as  his  looks  and  words  used  to  raise 
in  my  heart  the  shoots  of  wisdom  and  the  charms  of  virtue." 

"  Be  happy,  sleep,  rest  in  peace,  benevolent  soul.  Deign  to 
receive  this  testimony  of  my  gratitude  while  I  thus  adorn  thy 
cold  remains !  Thou  hast  cultivated  my  mind  with  reason  and 
truth,  hast  taught  me  to  love  my  duty,  and  hast  opened  my 
heart  to  feel  the  delights  of  virtuous  friendship.  Thus  do  I 
express  my  friendship  and  gratitude  to  thee." 

Salamis  was  expecting  his  son's  return.  "  Habib,"  said  he, 
*  after  thus  obeying  the  emotions  of  gratitude,  you  must  now 
think  of  acquiring  knowledge  which  may  be  more  directly  use- 
ful in  your  situation.  You  are,  my  son,  destined  by  heaven  to 
succeed  me  in  the  command  of  the  valiant  tribes  under  my 
dominion.  You  must  march  at  their  head  in  every  military 
expedition.  You  must  therefore  learn  how  you  may  conduct 
th?m  upon  such  occasions,  must  harden  yourself  against  fatigue, 
and  musl  acquire  those  military  arts  which  may  best  enable  you 
to  triumph  over  every  enemy  that  shall  dare  to  resist  you.  By 
uniting  address  and  dexterity  to  strength,  you  may  make  your- 
self  the  most  gallant  and  intrepid  soldier  in  your  armies.  You 
have  already  begun  to  accustom  yourself  to  bear  arms.  Only 
indolence,  or  cowardice,  sink  under  their  weight.  The  brave 
man  makes  himself  familiar  with  it,  and  it  soon  becomes  light 
to  him.  Ah !  why  cannot  I  find  among  -my  warriors  one  at 
well  qualified  to  instruct  yon  in  the  exercise  of  arms,  as  Ilfakif 


112  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

was  to  initiate  you  in  science  ?  An  accomplished  soldier  is  a 
phoenix,  scarcely  to  be  found.  The  great  prophet  performed  a 
miracle  in  our  favor,  by  preserving  Ilfakis ;  wo'ild  that  his 
goodness  would  also  send  me  the  extraordinary  character  to 
whom  I  wish  now  to  commit  you."  "  Father,"  said  Habib,  "  in 
my  diversions  I  can  attack  your  most  vigorous  horses ;  my 
strength  and  courage  never  forsake  me.  Change  this  robe  of 
linen  for  a  cuirass  of  iron.  Give  me  a  heavier  buckler,  and  a 
stronger  lance,  and  you  shall  then  find  me  no  unworthy  com- 
panion to  yourself.  Ah !  when  shall  I  be  permitted  to  lay  aside 
these  clothes,  which  render  almost  my  very  sex  equivocal,  and 
convey  no  favorable  idea  of  the  vigor  which  nature  has  given 
me  ?  It  requires  only  to  be  tutored  to  discipline.  All  my  wish 
is,  to  learn  how  I  may  best  employ  it."  "  Worthy  present  from 
the  hand  of  heaven ! "  said  the  emir,  embracing  his  son. 
"  Happy  child  !  hope  of  my  tribes.  He  who  inspires  you  with 
such  noble  dispositions  will  surely  assist  you  in  the  cultivation 
of  them." 

Hardly  was  this  conversation  ended,  when  a  warrior  pre- 
sented himself  at  the  entrenchments  around  Salamis's  camp,  and 
begged  to  have  the  honor  of  being  admitted  into  his  presence. 
"  Introduce  him,"  said  the  emir.  "  My  heart,  the  first  wish  of 
which  is  to  see  peace  and  justice  reign  through  the  earth,  de- 
sires to  live  among  men  who  are  their  protectors."  The 
fetranger  appeared. 

The  noble  steed  on  which  he  was  borne,  covered  him  with 
his  flowing  mane,  so  that  only  the  crest  of  his  helmet,  and  the 
plume  of  feathers  waving  upon  it,  could  be  seen.  He  ap- 
proached the  tent,  and  alighted  from  his  horse.  Habib,  who 
had  gone  before,  seized  the  bridle,  and  delivered  him  to  one  of 
the  emir's  grooms.  "  Valiant  knight,"  said  the  emir,  "  with 
what  intentions  came  you  hither ? "  "I  came,"  replied  the  un- 
kric  wn  knight,  "  to  do  homage  to  the  virtues,  the  courage,  and 
the  power  of  the  great  emir,  Ben-Hilac  Salamis,  and  to  ask 
jroung  Habib  to  admit  me  to  share  the  favors  with  which  he  i* 
toaded  by  the  lovely  daughter  of  Hymen.  The  warrior  wKc 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  41  & 

has  her  in  his  arras,  intoxicated  with  the  enjoyment,  will  soot 
forget  the  dangers  to  which  he  has  been  exposed." 

The  emir,  not  comprehending  what  was  meant  by  this  ad- 
dress, asked  his  son  to  explain  it.  "  Father,"  said  Habib,  in  a 
tone  of  kind  concern,  "  this  noble  knight  asks  leave  to  salute 
you,  and  to  share  my  coffee." 

Then,  turning  to  the  stranger :  "  Warrior,"  said  he,  "  to  de- 
sire the  favors  of  the  daughter  of  Hymen  is  to  show  one's  self 
worthy  of  those  which  she  delights  to  pour  into  the  hearts  of 
such  as  love  glory.  Nothing  of  what  you  desire  shall  be  re- 
fused you  here.  The  hero  whom  you  see  is  emir  Salamis,  and 
I  am  his  son  Habib," 

The  two  heroes  then  saluted  each  other.  Salamis  had  never 
Been  a  man  of  a  finer  figure,  or  one  in  whom  majesty  and  grace 
were  more  happily  united.  His  arms  of  polished  steel  reflected 
the  sun's  rays  with  such  lustre,  that  they  seemed  to  rob 
him  of  that  radiance  which  they  borrowed.  His  helmet  glit- 
tered like  a  meteor  in  the  sky ;  the  blade  of  his  scimetar  flamed 
afar.  No  gold  or  diamonds  decorated  any  part  of  his  armor  j 
its  lustre  was  owing  to  its  simplicity,  and  to  the  warrior's  care. 

While  this  stranger  knight  was  drinking  his  coffee,  Salamie 
was  curious  to  learn,  from  his  own  mouth,  what  were  the  mo- 
tives which  had  brought  him  to  his  camp. 

"  Illustrious  and  powerful  emir,"  replied  the  knight,  "  I  ana 
of  a  Parthian  family,  and  was  born  in  a  remote  part  of  India 
In  my  infancy  I  conceived  a  passion  for  glory,  an  betook  my  • 
self  to  the  profession  of  arms.  The  fame  which  you  have  ac- 
quired in  Arabia  roused  my  emulation.  I  wished  for  a  nearer 
knowledge  of  him  whom  I  considered  as  a  noble  model  fcr  my 
imitation.  On  the  confines  of  your  territories  I  learned  that 
you  at  this  time  wanted  a  governor  to  assist  you  in  the  military 
education  of  young  Habib ;  and  although  he  might  learn  all 
that  can  be  necessary  from  his  father,  Salamis,  yet  I  conceived 
that  as  it  was  requisite  for  him  to  be  constantly  attended,  in  all 
his  exercises,  my  services  might  be  of  use  to  him,  and  I  an 
therefore  come  to  offer  them." 

35* 


414  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

u  Sir,"  replied  the  emir,  "  I  feel  myself  much  obliged  to  you 
and  the  generosity  of  your  sentiments  determines  me  to  accept 
your  services.  But  since  my  son  must  one  day  be  able  to  ruU 
my  dominions,  none  shall  be  his  instructor  who  cannot  mastel 
me  rn  light  Let  us  try  our  strength  against  one  another,  and 
without  malice  contend  for  victory.  The  man  who  conquers  me 
shall  be  tutor  to  my  son.  "  It  is  an  honor,"  replied  the  stranger 
knight,  "  to  which  the  greatest  warriors  might  be  proud  to 
aspire.  1  accept  the  challenge  of  the  great  Salamis,  nor  shall 
I  be  ashamed  to  confess  him  my  conqueror,  whom  none  has 
ever  conquered." 

Salamis's  ministers,  who  witnessed  this  challenge,  dissuaded 
him  from  it,  and  told  him  that  he  was  wrong  to  enter  into  any 
such  contest,  with  a  man  whose  birth  and  condition  in  life  was 
unknown  to  him.  "  What  signify  rank  and  birth  ?"  replied  the 
emir.  "  It  is  a  warrior  I  want,  not  a  king.  If  this  knight  is 
blinded  by  presumption,  I  can  be  in  no  danger  in  contending 
with  him ;  but  if  his  courage  is  equal  to  his  manly  assurance, 
neither  of  us  will  be  at  any  disadvantage,  and  I  shall  have  en- 
tered the  lists  with  my  equal."  Then  turning  to  the  stranger : 
*  Sir  knight,"  said  he,  "  rest  yourself,  and  let  your  steed  recover 
breath.  I  do  not  wish  you  to  combat  with  me  under  any  dis- 
advantage. If  I  desire  to  measure  my  strength  and  courage 
against  yours,  it  is  not  to  avoid  giving  you  my  esteem,  but  to 
put  U  in  your  power  to  conquer  it.  On  the  day  after  to-morrow, 
we  shall  proceed  to  the  camp." 

Habib  conducted  the  stranger  into  a  tent  prepared  for  him. 
The  knight,  sensibly  affected  with  the  kindness  and  attention 
thup  shown  to  him,  looked  upon  the  youth  with  a  heart  already 
invested  by  his  character.  "The  young  vine,"  said  he, 
"  loaded  with  fruits,  engages  the  passing  traveller  to  set  a  prop 
for  its  support.  When  the  grape  ripens,  it  will  offer  itself  fa 
the  passenger's  hand." 

They  then  saluted  one  another,  and  Habib  retired  to  his 
fiber's  tent.  When  day  returned,  ho  ran  to  the  tent  of  the 
kn1  ;ht,  who  had  already  begun  to  nil  that  place  in  his  heart 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4  U 


which  tlfakis  had  formerly  held.  He  found  him  busy  in 
mg  his  arms,  and  examining  his  horse's  harness.  "  What  !  you 
your&elf  do  this  ?  "  said  the  young  sultan.  "  Yes,  prince,  he 
who  is  jealous  of  his  glory  ought  to  neglect  nothing  that  can 
contribute  to  it  ;  his  arms  are  the  only  mirror  a  true  knight 
deigns  to  use." 

In  the  mean  time  the  field  was  prepared  in  which  Salamis 
arid  the  stranger  knight  was  to  enter  the  lists.  The  trumpets 
sounded;  an  immense  crowd  of  spectators  stood  around  the 
barriers.  The  warriors  appeared  ;  and  on  both  sides  the  ad- 
vantages appeared  so  equal,  that  it  was  impossible  to  say  to 
whom  the  victory  might  incline. 

The  lances  they  poised  were  of  equal  weight  ;  their  horses 
of  the  same  size  and  strength.  They  rushed  towards  one 
another  with  the  impetuosity  of  lightning.  Furious,  however, 
as  was  the  shock,  they  both  remained  immovable  in  their  seats, 
and  their  lances  were  broken  in  pieces.  Salamis,  who  had 
never  before  met  with  such  opposition,  was  astonished  to  find 
so  vigorous  an  assault  ineffectual  ;  and  his  adversary,  from 
other  motives,  which  it  is  yet  too  soon  to  mention,  was  himself 
at  the  same  time  in  the  greatest  surprise.  The  emir  made  a 
sign  to  his  adversary  that  he  wanted  to  speak  with  him.  The 
stranger  knight  stopped,  alighted  from  his  horse,  and  advanced 
up  to  him. 

"  Brave  knight,"  said  the"  emir,  "  you  have  given  me  a  high 
proof  of  your  prowess,  which  makes  me  hope  that  to-morrow, 
when  we  meet  with  our  scimetars  in  our  hands,  I  shall  find  an 
adversary  worthy  of  myself."  "  Great  prince,"  replied  the 
stranger  knight,  "  never  mortal  yet  got  the  advantage  over 
me.  It  is  U.  my  great  astonishment  that  I  have  found  one 
able  to  resist  me.  I  value  too  highly  the  honor  you  have 
done  me,  to  refuse  the  challenge  you  offer  me  for  to-morrow.'* 
After  this  the  two  warriors  shook  hands,  parted,  and  laid  aside 
their  arms.  Habib  went  to  his  father's  tent,  to  do  what  filial 
duty  required,  and  then,  at  the  impulse  of  friendship,  returned' 
looa  fuler  V>  the  stranger,  while  those  whd  had  been  appointed 


416  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

10  serve  him  were  relieving  him  of  his  arms :  "  You  no  longei 
refuse,  then,"  said  Habib, "  to  employ  those  who  are  appointed 
to  obey  your  orders  ? "  "  No,  my  amiable  sultan.  Let  me 
tell  you  an  apologue,  the  meaning  of  which  I  apply  to  my  own 
profession,  certainly  the  first  in  the  world.  When  the  sun 
rises,  he  employs  no  hand  but  his  own  to  spread  out  the  rays 
which  surround  him.  When  he  goes  to  rest,  he  leaves  it  to 
the  waves  of  the  ocean,  into  which  he  sinks  to  extinguish 
them." 

"  J  shall  answer  you  with  another  apologue,"  said  Habib, 
*  or  rather  with  a  truth  with  which  you  impress  me.  The 
hero  who  has  sustained  unmoved  the  enormous  weight  of  my 
father's  lance,  has  dazzled  my  eyes  with  his  lustre,  and  he 
whom  I  see  still  shine,  can  never  be  extinguished." 

"  A  young  eaglet,"  replied  the  stranger,  "  who  is  yet  scarce 
fledged,  opened  his  eyes  to  the  light  for  the  first  time.  He 
saw  a  glow-worm  >n  the  foliage  of  a  neighboring  tree,  and 
was  not  dazzled  with  the  sight.  The  prince  of  birds,  then,  no 
longer  doubted  that  he  would  one  day  gaze  on  the  sun  with  a 
steady  eye." 

"  Sure,"  said  Habib,  "  the  phoenix  which  speaks  to  me  is 
continually  revived  from  his  ashes,  and  at  each  renovation  of 
his  existence,  looks  back  with  contempt  on  all  the  advantages 
he  before  enjoyed."  "  With  you,  charming  Habib,"  said  the 
warrior,  embracing  nim, "  I  have  no  advantages,  unless,  per- 
haps, in  the  affection  with  which  you  have  inspired  me."  "  Could 
I  open  my  heart  to  you,"  said  Habib,  "  you  would  acknowledge 
yeurself  outdone; 'but  ray  father  must  no  longer  be  deprived 
of  the  pleasure  of  seeing  you.  He  loves  heroes,  and  you, 
although  you  say  not  so,  are  a  hero." '  "  It  may  happen,* 
replied  the  stranger,  "  that  one  of  us  two  may,  one  day,  be* 
come  a  hero.  At  present  I  see  no  heroes  here."  As  they 
spoke  thus,  they  walked  hand  in  hand  to  the  tent  of  Salamis, 
The  emir  was  pleased  to  remark  the  rise  of  a  mutual  attach 
ment,  which  he  was  determined  to  strengthen. 

Salamis  no  sooner  saw  the  stranger  knight  than  he 


ENTERTAINMENTS  41 

ftim  with  expressions  of  the  warmest  esteem.  "  I  know  '  said 
he,  u  that  you  can  no  longer  find  difficulty  in  any  trial  I  can 
3ut  ydu  to.  It  is  not  to  settle  my  own  opinion  with  respect  to 
you,  that  I  require  a  new  display  of  your  courage  and  vigor  •, 
but  I  command  a  warlike  nation,  jealous  of  their  glory,  and 
am  desirous  of  leaving  them  no  shadow  of  doubt  concerning 
the  superior  merit  of  a  man  who  is  to  be  honored  with  a 
preference  above  them.  I  must  carry  my  delicacy  so  far, 
(and  you  will  not  disapprove  of  my  doing  so)  as  to  open  the 
lists  to  whosoever  may  think  himself  able  to  dispute  your 
triumph,  when  you  shall  have  finished  your  trials  against  me. 
In  the  mean  time,  let  us  enjoy  the  present  togetner.  Tf, 
morrow  we  shall  force  envy  to  admire  you." 

Next  day  displayed  the  most  surprising  combat  that  the 
Arabians  ever  beheld.  The  two  heroes  opposed  buckler  to 
buckler,  and  laid  on  the  most  terrible  blows.  The  stroke  was 
felt  before  the  arm  had  been  seen  to  be  raised.  They  then 
laid  aside  the  buckler  and  scmetar,  and  prepared  to  try  their 
strength  in  wrestling.  Th-°  winds,  in  all  their  fury,  in  vain 
assail  the  cedars  of  Lebanon.  The  earth  trembles  beneath 
them,  but  they  cannot  be  torn  up  by  the  roots. 

Emir  Salamis  did  not  choose  to  keep  up  the  astonishment 
of  the  spectators  longer.  He  was  better  pleased  to  have  met 
with  an  equal,  than  he  could  have  been  with  victory  in  the 
contest. 

"  Let  us  stop  for  a  moment,"  said  he,  "  brave  knight !  my 
surprise  is  every  moment  heightened ;  I  never  before  found 
any  one  able  to  withstand  me :  I  was,  indeed,  less  elated  with 
*ny  victories  than  moved  with  pity  for  the  weakness  of  our 
taturfi.  When  I  compared  our  resources  with  the  natural  ad- 
rantages,  which  certain  animals  are  possessed  of,  I  confess  1 
was  wrong.  I  think  less  of  the  vigor  of  the  lion,  since  I  have 
proved  yours.  Let  us  cease  from  this  fatiguing  exercise,  sad- 
dle our  steeds,  and  attack  each  other  with  javelins." 

This  new  species  of  combat  afforded  new  matter  of  triumph 
to  both  the  combatants.  Every  means  that  addr  ass,  dexterity 


/I8  IAABIAN  NIGHTS' 

and  strength  could  furnish,  were  practised  upon  this  t>5casion 
The  emir,  however,  was  beginning  to  lose  his  advantages. 
Touth  gave  his  adversary  a  superiority  which  his  vakwvco'jld 
not  surmount.  He  was,  besides,  convinced  that  the  stranger 
possessed,  in  a  most  eminent  degree,  all  the  qualities  requisite 
for  the  employment  for  which  he  intended  him.  He  stopped, 
therefore,  and  made  a  sign  to  the  stranger  to  do  the  same,  and 
they  returned  hand  in  hand  to  the  camp. 

"  Knight,"  said  Salamis,  "  my  son  will  find  in  you  a  second 
father.  You  know  how  your  own  vigor  has  been  improved 
by  continued  exercise,  by  which  means  only  you  could  add  to 
it  such  amazing  dexterity  and  address.  You  know  also  how 
necessary  it  is  that  we  be  accustomed  to  dangers,  in  order  that 
we  may  acquire  due  coolness  of  temper,  and  firmness  of  mind. 
1  give  up  to  your  care  the  only  object  of  my  hopes.  Teach 
Him  to  know  what  true  glory  is,  and  how  attainable  by  the 
warrior." 

Young  Habib  had,  by  his  wishes  and  inclination,  already 
anticipated  his  father's  intentions.  He  therefore  joyfully  fol- 
lowed his  new  master.  "  I  come,"  said  he,  "  to  profit  by  youi 
lessons.  I  must  imitate  my  father  and  you,  and  may  I  ap 
proach  near  to  the  perfection  of  the  models  I  aspire  to  imitate.*' 

"  We  will  portion  out  our  time  to  our  different  tasks,  my 
lear  Habib,"  said  II  Haboul,  for  this  was  the  name  of  the 
Indian  knight.  "  The  day  we  shall  spend  in  such  exercises 
as  may  improve  your  vigor  and  address  to  equal  your  courage 
In  the  evening  we  shall  converse  of  those  qualities  which  will 
be  necessary  to  fit  you  to  rule  over  the  most  independent  people 
on  earth.  They  have  at  all  times  preferred  liberty  to  luxury 
Valor,  joined  with  prudence,  are  the  qualities  they  adore  These 
we  the  titles  by  which  the  emir,  your  father,  reigns  over  sixty- 
six  tribes.  You  cannot  inherit  his  power,  unless  you  acquire 
his  virtues." 

On  this  plan  did  II  Haboul  direct  Habib's  education,  and  it 
won  produced  the  happiest  fruits.  Emir  Salamis  was  soon 
after  engaged  in  a  war,  in  which  the  young  sultan  distinguish 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4lfc 

«d  himself  by  prodigies  of  valor.  Being  ordered  upon  a  diffi 
cult  service,  he  distinguished  himself  by  his  prudence  and 
tirnme&?  and  when  called  on  to  assist  in  his  father's  councils 
ad  astonished  the  ministers  by  the  wise  advice  he  offered. 

Jl  HabouFs  task  was  now  finished,  and  he  was  obliged  to 
part  from  his  pupil.  It  was  proper  to  acquaint  the  young 
prince  with  the  necessity  which  called  him  away.  "  My  son," 
said  he,  "  I  must  leave  you.  I  am  called  into  another  country 
by  the  orders  of  my  superiors."  "  What,"  said  Habib,  "  and 
will  you  leave  me ?  "  "I  am  no  longer  necessary  to  you  here, 
and  am  besides  obliged  to  yield  to  the  commands  of  fata  ?  * 
4  How  unfortunate  am  I  ? "  replied  the  youth.  "  Death  de- 
prived me  of  my  former  master,  Ilfakis,  whom  I  still  rr  mem- 
ber with  regret,  and  a  harsh  command  now  forces  you  to  part 
from  me  !  But,  do  we  part  forever  ?  May  not  I  know  why  ? 
Cannot  my  father  prevail  with  you  to  alter  your  resolution  ?  " 
"  No  human  power  can,"  replied  II  Haboul ;  but  I  hope  fo  see 
you  again.  However,  my  dear  Habib,  I  can  offer  you  at  lea*, 
&  partial  consolation.  He  whom  you  loved  under  the  name 
of  Ilfakis  is  not  dead,  but  still  remains  attached  to  you." 
"  How,"  replied  Habib,  "  I  myself  attended  his  funeral,  and 
wept  over  his  tomb." 

"  My  son,"  replied  II  Haboul,  the  st^ry  of  the  death  you 
speak  of,  is  connected  with  various  others,  in  which  you  are 
concerned,  perhaps  even  with  yours  and  mine.  Listen  to  what 
I  shall  relate.  Remember  your  horoscope,  and  be  not  sur- 
prised at  the  story  you  are  about  to  hear.  In  the  first  place, 
know  that  he  who  loves  and  speaks  to  you  is  not  a  human 
being,  but  a  geni,  employed  by  destiny  to  conduct  you  to  the 
high  fate  for  which  you  were  born." 

ytory  of  lUabousatrous,  of  King  Schal-  Goose,  and  of  Oamaril 
zaman. 

IT  is  well  known  to  you,  my  dear  prince,  that  some  of  the 
genii  of  tlir,  race  of  Eblis  bowed  the  knee  to  the  great  8oV> 


420  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

mon  Illabousatrous  was  one  of  the  first  of  these.  1  asa  oJ 
the  same  race,  and  took  the  same  steps.  Among  my  own 
people  I  am  called  a  cadi,  by  the  grace  of  God  and  of  Sole* 
mon.  To  escape  the  resentment  and  vengeance  of  the  party 
whom  he  had  forsaken,  and  to  induce  the  Prophet,  to  whom 
we  have  submitted,  to  alleviate  the  yoke  imposed  upon  us,  we 
form  alliances  with  the  children  of  Adam,  and  through  theif 
means  partake  of  the  blessings  of  the  earth. 

Tllabousatrous  had  by  a  woman  a  daughter  of  great  beauty, 
whom  he  named  Camarilzaman  ;  to  secure  her  peace  and  hap- 
piness, he  wished  to  marry  her  to  one  of  the  greatest  monarchs 
of  the  earth.  At  that  time  there  reigned  over  the  isles  in  the 
middle  of  the  seven  seas,  the  most  distant  region  of  the  east,  a 
potent  monarch  named  Schal-goase.  Illabousatrous  appeared 
to  this  prince,  in  the  form  of  an  old  man,  and  proposed  an 
alliance  between  them,  of  which  the  fair  Camarilzaman  was 
the  pledge.  The  monarch  saw  the  princess,  fell  in  love  with 
hei  and  married  her.  Many  of  the  genii  who  were  subject 
to  Illabousatrous,  settled  in  the  dominions  of  Schal-goase.  Ths 
circumjacent  sea  was  peopled  with  them,  and  in  no  place  under 
Heaven  did  the  genii  and  the  children  of  men  live  in  better 
amity.  This  happy  correspondence  promised  to  be  further 
confirmed  and  improved,  upon  the  birth  of  the  charming  Do- 
rathil-goase,  the  first  issue  of  the  marriage  between  Schal- 
goase  and  Camarilzaman. 

Were  the  gifts  of  heaven  always  pledges  of  prosperity  in 
this  world,  nobody,  sure,  could  have  been  happier  than  this 
lovely  princess.  Her  infant  beauty  seemed  to  irradiate  the 
cradle  in  which  she  was  laid ;  each  day  she  displayed  opening 
graces;  but  when  her  father  and  grandfather  consulted  the 
Btars  respecting  her  destiny,  the  same  confusion  which  appeared 
to  disturb  the  planetary  system  at  your  birth,  discovered  itself 
jpon  the  occasion  of  hers,  and  that  with  such  perfect  similarity, 
as  to  prove  that  you  were  the  Arabian  prince,  sprung  from  the 
prophet's  favorite  tribe,  to  whom  fate  had  destined  the  posses- 
don  of  the  princess,  to  be  obtained  through  a  series  of  danger* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  42i 

squall}  alarming  to  both,  and  this  union  alone  could  insure  he? 
peace  ana  happiness,  her  fortune  and  yours. 

From  this  time  Illabousatrous  entrusted  me  with  the  care 
of  your  education  ;  but  Solomon's  orders  c&d  not  permit  me  to 
approach  you.  I  could  obtain  no  commission  favorable  to  our 
purpose,  till  such  time  as  your" father  became  desirous  of  find 
ing  you  a  preceptor.  Ilfakis,  whom  the  emir,  your  father,  had 
in  view,  was  dying.  I  came  to  the  tent  where  he  laid,  and  at 
the  very  instant  when  the  angel  of  death  was  parting  his  soul 
from  his  body,  I  substituted  my  own  spirit  in  the  room  of  hi* 
By  means  of  a  potent  elixir  I  reanimated  his  body,  and  to  this 
miracle  you  owed  your  governor. 

When  I  saw  that  it  was  time  for  you  to  apply  to  the  manly 
exercises,  I  carried  the  body  of  Ilfakis  back  to  his  tent,  and 
withdrew  that  influence  by  which  it  had  been  withheld  from 
dissolution. 

My  next  care  was  to  find  you  a  valiant  knight.  In  this 
search  I  soon  found  one  expiring  on  the  field  of  battle,  after  he 
had  covered  it  with  the  bodies  of  his  fallen  enemies.  I  seized 
his  body,  stepped  the  blood  flowing  from  his  wounds,  healed 
them  with  a  balsam  much  more  powerful  in  its  operation  than 
that  of  Mecca,  restored  all  his  former  vigor,  armed  him  with  a 
lance  which  had  been  wielded  by  the  hand  of  Solomon,  and 
you  see  before  you  that  knight.  In  this  form  I  presented  my- 
self to  emir  Salamis,  and  demanded  to  share  the  favors  of  the 
daughter  of  Hymen  ;  upon  which  you  became  my  pupil. 

My  dear  Habib,  you  have  formed  a  tender  friendship  for  me 
under  both  forms.  Your  heart  has  never  deceived  you.  Never 
did  a  being  of  any  nature  conceive  so  tender  an  affection  foi 
one  of  the  children  of  Adam  as  that  which  I  feel  for  you. 
You  have  no  distrust  of  me.  Recollect  the  lessons  I  gave  you 
in  the  character  of  Ilfakis.  When  I  instructed  you  in  the 
knowledge  of  talismans,  I  explained  their  use ;  but  I  at  the 
*ame  time  put  you  on  your  guard  against  the  spirits  to  whien 
they  might  subject  you.  Tue  race  of  Eblis  <-j*e,  in  general, 
'jLtrtmely  corrupt  anc?  wicked,  Happy  he  among  us  who  barf 
36 


4%?2  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 


sealed  with  the  great  seal  of  Solomon.  The  rest  are  eon 
anually  busied  about  :>ur  destruction  and  yours. 

Thus  do  they  persecute  the  fair  Dorathil-goase,  who  might 
rescue  them  from  the  effects  of  the  curse  pronounced  against 
them,  as  she  is  the  daughter  of  a  man  by  a  female  gem, 
Hence  have  they  already  become  suspicious  of  you  as  a  faith- 
ful  mussulman,  and  the  hero  destined  to  avenge  the  wrongs  of 
Dorathil-goase,  and  defeat  their  treacherous  attempts  against 
her. 

Tbife  princess  has  ascended  the  throne  in  consequence  of  hei 
father's  death.  Illabousatrous,  her  grandfather,  has  given  her 
*ome  of  his  ablest  genii,  for  viziers  ;  but  the  isle  in  which  the 
Capitol  stands,  is  the  only  one  that  remains  at  present  in  a 
state  of  tranquillity.  The  other  six,  with  the  seven  seas,  form- 
mg  the  rest  of  her  dominions,  are  either  at  present  in  a  state 
.of  revolt,  or  have  been  infested  by  hostile  incursions.  Only 
one  resource  now  remains  to  save  the  lovely  queen,  and  by  thia 
me  constellations  have  destined  that  she  shall  be  saved.  Young 
liabib,  on  whom  she  has  bestowed  her  heart,  shall  soon  come 
to  deliver  her  from  her  enemies. 

Uuring  this  recital  by  II  Haboul,  the  young  sultan,  led  alter- 
nately from  hope  to  fear,  from  surprise  to  surprise,  and  from 
wonder  to  wonder,  stood  with  his  eye  fixed,  and  hardly  breath- 
ing. His  whole  soul  was  agitated  with  emotions  to  which  he 
had  hifcherto  been  a  stranger.  Called  by  destiny  to  the  throne 
of  the  seven  seas,  and  to  receive  the  hand  of  a  princess,  whose 
felicity  depended  upon  him  alone,  he  felt  an  involuntary  emo- 
tion, and  burnt  already  with  ardor  to  expose  himself  to  the 
dangers  wnich  threatened  him.  The  feelings  of  love  and  the 
desire  of  glory,  alike  encouraged  him  to  an  enterprise  in  which 
success  was  to  be  doubly  crowned. 

"  Dear  and  powerful  geni,"  said  he  to  his  protector,  "  what 
road  am  I  to  tafce  f  Deign,  before  you  leave  me,  to  acquaint 
me  by  what  means  I  may  soonest  haste  to  the  assistance  if  her 
who  expects  all  my  valor.  The  sacrifice  of  my  life  and  quiet, 
»  but  a  small  mutter  to  justify  the  partiality  by  which  she  if 


ENTERTAINMENT*  421 

Determined  in  my  favor,  and  the  decrees  of  destiny  by  whiol. 
our  union  is  appointed." 

.  "  By  these  noble  sentiments,"  replied  II  Haboul,  "  I  kno* 
my  pupil,  the  son  of  emir  Salamis ;  but  remember,  my  dear 
llabib,  that  the  genii,  your  rivals  for  the  hand  of  Dorathil-goase, 
arid,  indeed,  your  avowed  enemies,  will  act  keenly  and  vigor- 
ously against  you.  They  will  combine  in  the  execution  of  their 
enterprises  wicked  men,  who  will  obey  them  without  knowing 
what  they  do ;  the  brute  animals,  the  elements,  and  in  short, 
all  nature  will  be  united  to  accomplish  their  odious  machina- 
tions." "  God  and  my  courage  will  not  forsake  me,"  said  Ha- 
bib,  "  and  you  yourself  will  contribute  to  my  success."  "  Ah  J 
to  be  sure,"  replied  the  geni,  "  I  might  be  of  great  service  to 
you  were  I  not  obliged  to  return  the  body  of  the  Indian  war- 
rior to  the  dust ;  but  I  am  constrained  by  a  rigid  law  which  1 
cannot  elude.  Persevere  courageously  in  your  noble  inten- 
tions. Expect  not  that  I  should  now  point  out  the  road  you 
are  to  take.  You  are  divided  from  your  mistress  by  the  whole 
length  of  the  earth,  and  only  the  orders  of  destiny  can  open  to 
you  her  dominions,  which  are  at  present  shut  up  on  all  sides  by 
the  malice  of  her  enemies." 

"  You  once  told  me,  my  dear  II  Haboul,  that  the  brave  man 
might  bend  destiny  to  his  wishes."  "  You  may,  indeed,  taKe 
such  violent  measures  when  no  choice  remains.  But  have  pa- 
tience till  some  event  shall  direct  you  how  to  act ;  I  fear  that 
whatever  you  might  undertake  at  present,  would  turn  out 
against  you.  Go,  attack  lions,  one  of  which  you  have  already 
destroyed,  without  other  weapons  than  your  poniard.  Make 
yourself  beforehand  familiar  with  dangers,  that  you  may  bo 
prepared  for  those  which  await  you.  Farewell,  my  dear  Ha- 
bib ;  I  return  no  more  to  the  camp  of  Salamis ;  I  must  avoid 
coming  to  any  explanation  with  him ;  and  if  you  let  him  know 
who  I  am,  and  who  I  have  been,  at  least  let  every  one  else  re- 
main ignorant  of  these  circumstances.  Depend  upon  retaining 
ifee  friendship  of  him  who  has  not  always  been  a  friend  to  i 


424  ARABIAN    «   OHTS 


d?  but  whom  you  have  fully  reconciled  to  them.  Embiw* 
ins  !  "  II  Haboul  now  mounted  his  steed  and  rode  away. 

As  soon  as  he  was  out  of  the  young  sultan's  sight,  he  struei 
into  the  desert,  and  halted  at  the  foot  of  a  hill.  There  he  l(^ft 
the  horse  on  which  he  rode,  and  having  dug  a  grave,  deposited 
in  it  his  mortal  body,  and  availing  himself  of  the  two  last  days 
vhich  the  orders  of  Solomon  yet  left  him,  proceeded  without 
delay  to  the  frontiers  of  the  dominions  of  Dorathil-goase. 

A  black  battalion  withstood  his  approach  ;  but  he  learned 
from  a  spirit  which  had  deserted,  that  the  White  Isle,  the 
Yellow  Isle,  the  Green,  the  Red,  and  the  Blue  Isles,  had  be«i 
subdued  by  the  Genii  Abarikaff,  who,  although  at  first  master 
only  of  the  Black  Isle,  had  now  obtained  possession  of  all  the 
others,  and  of  the  seas  by  which  they  are  divided. 

The  princess,  shut  up  in  her  capital  of  Medinaz-Hballor,* 
was  no  longer  mistress  of  any  part  of  her  dominions,  but  the 
territory  in  which  the  city  stood.  This  was  all  that  the  protec- 
tion of  her  grandfather,  Illabousatrous,  and  the  exertion's  of 
the  genii  whom  he  placed  as  her  viziers,  could  s'*ve  from  the 
rebel,  who  had  collected  a  legion  of  revolted  spirits  from  the 
depth  of  the  sea.  The  six  isles,  thus  reduced  under  the  power 
of  the  malignant  genii,  were  governed  by  rulers  still  more 
mischievous  and  tyrannical.  The  people  were  the  victims  of 
their  vices,  and  the  continual  sport  of  their  diabolical  enchant- 
ments. Dorathil-goase  called  in  vain  on  the  deliverer  promised 
her  by  fate.  All  the  passes  were  guarded,  and  the  place  of 
her  residence  was  inaccessible  to  men.  All  nature  seemed 
subject  to  those  malignant  genii. 

II  Haboul  was  inwardly  distressed  to  see  so  many  obstacles 
opposed  to  his  pupil's  valor  ;  but  he  himself  was  now  reduced 
to  silence  and  inactivity,  and  could  only  wait  with  impatience 
for  the  time  when  his  protection  should  become  necessary. 
lit  returned  therefore-  to  the  duties  of  his  former  post,  and 
waited  for  the  issue  of  events. 

*  The  city  of  crystal. 


ENTERTAINMENTS-  9Z& 

flabib,  apon  the  departure  of  his  master,  Lad  rttnrnea 
hastily,  to  Salamis  and  Amirala,  and  acquainted  them  with 
the  wondrous  things  of  which  he  had  just  been  informed.  The 
sparkling  of  his  eyes,  the  elevation  of  his  voice,  and  the  confu 
sion  of  his  discourse,  well  expressed  how  much  he  was  affect 
ed  by  the  dangers  and  the  charms  of  Dorathil-goase,  the 
perplexity  which  he  felt,  and  the  hopes  he  had  conceived 
u  On  me  only  is  she  to  rely,"  said  he,  with  a  noble  assurance. 
u  I  can  know  no  rest,  till  I  have  delivered  her.  The  moments 
are  precious.  No  person  can  point  out  or  open  the  road  by 
which  I  am  to  proceed  to  her  assistance!  In  this  state  o» 
uncertainty,  what  can  I  do  ?  " 

His  parents  saw  that  this  uncommon  passion  was  produced, 
not  so  much  by  sympathy,  as  by  the  influence  of  the  stars,  which 
they  could  not  counteract.  Instead  of  combating  his  resolu- 
tions, therefore,  they  only  laid  his  duties  anew  before  him, 
and  reminded  him  of  the  sage  advice  he  had  received  from  his 
governor.  The  young  sultan,  to  avoid  habits  of  sloth  and 
inactivity,  and  to  accustom  himself  still  more  and  more  to 
hardship,  retired  from  the  tents  of  the  tribe  to  a  solitary  recess, 
which  he  and  II  Haboul  had  formerly  prepared  together  in  a 
sequestered  vale,  surrounded'  by  the  hills  adjoining  the  camp 
of  Salamis. 

Here,  they  had  amused  themselves  amidst  theii  martial 
exercises,  with  forming  a  dyke  to  dam  up  the  course  of  a  small 
rivulet,  by  which  its  waters  were  collected  into  a  natural  basin. 
The  surrounding  trees  afforded  delightful  shade,  and  diffused 
their  branehes  so  thick,  that  the  surrounding  hills  could  scarce- 
ly be  seen  through  the  foliage.  The  greatest  variety  of  flow- 
ers, the  rarest  plants,  the  most  precious  aromatic  herb?,  grew 
in  abundance  on  the  banks  of  the  rivulet,  and  the  ground 
being  preserved  by  the  coolness  of  the  water,  by  which  it  was 
go  liberally  refreshed,  from  suffering  by  the  heat  of  the  sun, 
Displayed  in  profusion  all  the  riches  of  nature.  At  a  smaU 
distance  stood  a  hut  or  rather  a  palace,  formed  of  the  branches 
•f  trees  covered  with  rushes,  and  spread  with  mats.  Thi 

3S* 


126  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

ikins  of  wild  animals,  which  they  had  slain,  formed  their  sofas 
An  outer  fence  of  stakes  secured  this  little  dwelling  againsS 
any  hostile  assault, 

II  Haboul.  when  he  persuaded  Habib  to  form  this  rustic 
fcbode,  taught  him  how  he  might  one  day  supply  all  his  own 
wants.  Sitting  down  by  the  door,  he  invited  his  pupil  to 
contemplate  the  noble  amphitheatre  before  him.  "  Have  you 
not  a  pleasure,"  continued  he,  "  in  thinking  that  for  the  enjoy- 
ment which  these  afford,  you  are  indebted  to  yourself  alone  ? 
Thus  we  never  can  be  perfectly  happy,  but  through  ourselves." 

This  retirement,  of  which  Habib  was  very  fond,  was  well 
calculated  to  feed  his  growing  passion.  He  had  retired  to 
think  of  the  sole  object  of  his  wishes,  and  of  the  means  by 
whicn  they  might  be  united. 

One  day,  as  he  was  musing,  with  his  eyes  fixed  en  the 
Almos,  yet  without  reading,  and  his  imagination  absorbed  in 
the  ideas  of  love  and  war,  he  heard  a  sudden  noise  in  the  air. 
He  kneeled  down,  upon  this,  and  moving  the  branches  aside 
with  his  hand,  perceived  a  large  shade  descending  over  the 
pond.  After  continuing  its  progress  for  a  small  space,  the 
object  which  produced  this  shade  halted  upon  the  orink  of  the 
water.  It  was  a  bird  of  a  dark  grey  color,  and  bore  upon  its 
back  a  pavilion,  the  sides  of  which  seemed  to  be  gauze,  and 
the  door  and  windows  were  decorated,  all  about,  with  flowers. 

The  bird  alighted,  and  the  pavilion  opened.  A  golden  stair- 
case was  let  down  from  it.  On  the  top  of  this  appeared  a 
figure,  supported  by  others  no  less  remarkable  for  beauty.  On 
her  head  she  wore  a  tiara,  formed  of  tke  tresses  of  her  own 
hair,  interwoven  with  strings  of  pearls.  The  lily  and  the  rose 
vied  in  her  cheek ;  the  lustre  of  her  eyes,  her  vermilion  lips, 
and  the  lovely  dimples  around  them,  bore  at  once  an  expression 
of  smiling  sweetness  and  of  keen  sensibility. 

She  raised  her  eyes  to  heaven,  and  the  sun  was  eclipsed ; 
ghe  turned  them  upon  the  ground,  and  it  was  bespread  with 
fbw3rs.  She  smiled,  and  all  nature  seemed  to  smile  around 
Ver.  But  how  was  Habib  affected,  when  he  saw  her  movfl 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  42* 

And  walk  with  grace  and  majesty  !  She  leaned  on  "the  arm  of 
one  of  the  beauties  who  attended  her,  and  thus  proceeded  to 
the  sultan's  recess,  s,nd  there  sat  down  upon  the  grass,  within 
two  paces  of  him,  yet  without  perceiving  him. 

She  looked  just  to  one  side,  then  to  the  other ;  then,  sighing, 
gaid :  "  I  have  been  deceived.  He  is  not  here  ;  this  is  not  the 
place  of  his  retreat.  But  these  smiling  arbors,  the  sweet  mur- 
mur of  these  waters,  these  flowers  which  art  and  nature  con" 
ipire  to  rear,  all  here,  in  short,  are  his  work.  But  he  is  not 
here.  Oh,  thou  flowery  turf,  ye  blossoming  bowers,  cherished 
by  the  care  of  my  dear  Habib,  lend  an  ear  to  my  words,  bor- 
row a  voice  to  tell  my  tale,  and  inform  my  lover  when  he  shall 
come  hither,  that  the  tender  Dorathil-goase  came  to  the  midst 
of  Arabia  in  search  of  her  hero,  to  offer  him  her  throne  and 
her  heart,  and  to  accomplish  his  destiny.  Must  she  then  leave 
these  regions,  without  seeing  the  idol  of  her  soul  ? "  Thus 
Bpoke  the  princess  sorrowfully,  and  held  her  hands  to  her  eyes 
to  stop  her  tears,  which  were  ready  to  flow.  Habib  at  thia 
moment  cast  himself  at  her  feet,  which  he  bedewed  with  his 
tears,  before  she  could  perceive  or  prevent  him. 

"  Is  it  you,  then,  I  see ! "  cried  she,  looking  at  once  upon 
the  young  hero  at  her  feet,  and  at  his  picture,  which  she  wore 
constantly  in  her  bosom.  "  Is  not  this  an  illusion,  my  dear 
Habib  ? "  "  It  is  your  lover,  your  deliverer,  O  queen  of 
my  soul ! "  replied  he  passionately,  kissing  her  hand.  After 
which,  silence  was  for  a  while  the  only  expression  of  mutual 
Jove  and  admiration. 

But  this  pure  and  exquisite  enjoyment  was  only  of  a  mo- 
ment's duration.  A  sudden  noise  was  heard,  a  bird,,  appeared 
in  the  air,  approached,  and  by  an  instantaneous  transformation 
became  a  geni  in  the  human  form,  who  presented  himself  te 
Dorathil-goase.  "What,"  said  the  queen,  "is  it  you,  Ilbacca- 
ras  ?  What  urgent  reason  brings  you  from  Medinaz-ilballort 
lo  find  me  here  ?  * 

«  Queen, *  replied  the  geni,  "  by  your  absence  you  expose 


428  >R43IAN   H.'&H-JS 

yourself  to  lose  ail  yc/ur  dominions  The  rebel,  AbarikaflL 
has  taken  advantage  of  this  circumstance-  to  attack  the  only 
isle  which  remains  to  you.  Your  grand  vii^er  in  vain  opposei 
BO  numerous  a  host  of  enemies  as  infest  your  shores.  All 
the  rebel  genii  have  ranged  themselves  under  the  banner  of 
your  adversary ;  they  darken  the  sea,  and  overspread  all  the 
coasts.  Your  subjects  are  terrified  with  the  roaring  of  lions, 
eea-bulls,  and  hippopotami,  which  are  re-echoed  through  the  air5 
and  make  your  capital  tremble.  Come,  and  oppose  this  rage> 
with  the  magic  of  your  talisman ;  seize  the  only  pass  which  re- 
mains open,  and  hold  your  way  through  the  middle  region  of 
tfce  air." 

At  hearing  this  relation,  Habib  felt  his  blooa  boU  within  his 
veins.  His  eyes  were  fired  ;  his  stature  seemed  *e  rtee  to  * 
new  elevation ;  his  voice  sounded  terribly.  "  Let  'is  ware)* 
against  these  monsters,"  cried  he  ;  "I  will  clear  the 
eeas  of  them  ;  I  will  avenge  heaven  and  the  queen." 
replied  Ilbaccaras  in  astonishment, "  if  you  were  properly  aro^el 
you  might  be  equal  to  this  enterprise  ;  but  the  enemies  of  tb* 
great  Solomon  can  only  be  vanquished  with  the  arms  of  Solo- 
mon. These  you  must  seek  on  the  heights  of  mount  Caucasus, 
and  a  thousand  dangers  block  up  the  way."  Then,  speaking  to 
the  queen :  "  Let  us  be  gone,  madam,"  said  he,  "  the  moments 
are  precious ;  if  we  lose  but  one,  the  wicked  Abarikaff  may 
triumph ! " 

The  two  lovers  tenderly  embraced  each  other,  and  parted 
with  a  degree  of  fortitude  becoming  their  love.  Dorathil-goasi 
seated  herself  in  her  pavilion  ;  the  roc  arose  into  the  air,  and 
disappeared.  Habib  followed  the  flight  with  his  eyes,  and  now 
gave  himself  up  with  greater  ardor  than  ever  to  the  tenderness 
of  love,  and  ambition  for  glory. 

u  Adieu !  gentle  rivulet !  "  said  he,  "  whose  waters  have  so 
quenched  my  thirst,  and  bathed  my  limbs  ;  thou  canst  be  of  no 
further  service  to  me ;  my  heart,  my  blood,  my  vitals  burn  witk 
*  flame  which  thou  canst  not  quenoh. 


KNTEK1  JUKMWTS  42% 

*  Aiieu  !  thou  flowery  plain,  OL  which  my  love  has  ueignecZ 
to  tread.  Preserve,  if  you  can,  the  print  of  her  rbotsteps,  that 
my  eyes  may  trace  them,  if  I  shall  ever  leturn  hither. 

"  Adieu  !  ye  tender  shrubs,  which  leni  her  your  shade ;  well 
may  ye  boast  of  having  served  as  a  canopy  to  such  charms  ! 

"  Adieu  !  thou  land  which  hast  witnessed  my  felicity  ;  neve*.4 
shall  Habib  forget  thee !  The  palaces  of  the  kings  of  tho 
world  shall  be  worthless  in  my  eyes,  in  comparison  with  thee, 
Hero  my  soul  expanded  itself  for  the  first  time  to  happiness  $ 
here  I  first  felt  all  the  ardor  of  love !  but  here,  too,  have  I  feli 
the  most  cruel  loss  I  could  suffer ;  for  hence  was  Dorathil- 
goase  ravished  from  me  !  Yes,  I  will  not  fear  to  brave  the  de- 
mons of  darkness,  who  dispute  with  me  the  possession  of  my 
lovely  mistress  !  Great  prophet !  Oh !  do  thou  open  to  me  the 
path  which  is  to  conduct  me  to  glory  and  happiness !  I  will 
pierce  the  heart  of  the  traitor  AbarikafF;  and  thou,  great  Solo- 
mon !  if  I  am  not  unworthy  of  wearing  thine  armor,  give  me 
wings  on  which  I  may  fly  to  mount  Caucasus  !  Covered  with 
thy  buckler,  may  I  overthrow  the  enemies  of  the  queen  of  my 
heart!" 

Habib,  having  after  this  performed  his  prayers  and  ablu* 
tions,  returned  to  his  father's  tent,  determined  to  take  the  road 
to  Caucasus,  as  soon  as  he  should  have  obtained  permission. 
It  may  be  easily  imagined  how  forcibly  he  would  describe  to 
Salamis  and  Amirala  the  circumstances  of  his  last  adventure ; 
his  words  absolutely  painted.  But  great  was  the  surprise  of 
his  parents  when  he  uttered  a  solemn  vow  before  them,  not  tc 
rest  his  head  in  any  tent,  till  he  should  first  stand  on  the 
summit  of  mount  Caucasus. 

"  What  a  desperate  enterprise,  my  son,"  said  the  emir ;  "  know 
fou  not  that  mount  Caucasus  is  situate  at  the  utmost  limits  of 
the  earth ;  that  you  must  traverse  dreadful  deserts  before  you 
can  reach  it?  Men  you  may  vanquish;  but  how  will  you 
bear  the  severity  of  climates  to  which  you  are  a  stranger? 
How  can  you  provide  against  the  famine  which  desolates  the 
regions  through  which  you  will  have  to  travel  ? 


*;}  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

These  are  enemies  which  you  cannot  overcome.  "  Ah !  father, 
replied  Habib,  "  can  any  fear  hold  me  back,  when  I  go  undei 
the  impulse  of  glory,  and  fate  ?  And  even  though  I  were  a 
stranger  to  the  powerful  influence  of  these,  my  heart  naturally 
glows  wit)  a  detestation  of  tyrants ;  I  could  descend  into  the 
bowels  of  the  earth  to  tear  out  and  punish  the  base  Abarikaff. 

Salamis  was  obliged  to  yield  to  sentiments  which  he  had 
himself  instilled  into  his  son's  heart ;  he  could  not  reply,  with- 
out contradicting  his  own  principles.  He  chose  twenty  men 
of  tried  prudence  and  courage  to  attend  his  son,  and  gave 
them  commodious  and  suitable  equipage,  with  two  camels  to 
bear  the  tents  and  the  baggage. 

The  day  for  their  departure  came,  and  the  emir  was  forced 
to  tear  himself  from  the  arms  of  his  affectionate  and  beloved 
son.  Their  parting  scene  was  sorrowful ;  the  tender  Amirala 
wept  and  cried : 

"  My  cedar,  fastened  by  strong  roots,  surpassing  in  beauty 
the  cedars  of  Lebanon.  The  birds  of  the  air  built  their  nests 
upon  its  branches ;  our  flocks  pastured  under  the  shade  ;  but, 
lo !  it  is  suddenly  born  away  through  parched  and  sandy 
deserts. 

"  Ye  furious  winds,  strive  not  to  shake  it.  It  was  made  to 
brave  your  fury ! 

"  Ye  gloomy  clouds,  ye  lightning,  ye  tempests,  which  pre* 
cede  the  bursting  of  the  thunder,  respect  a  stem  impressed 
with  the  seal  of  the  great  prophet ! 

"  Enough,  my  dear  Amirala,"  said  Salamis,  "  our  son's  in- 
tention is  noble;  he  is  bound  by  his  vow  to  prosecute  thia 
enterprise ;  the  lioness  nurses  not  her  whelps  for  herself  alone , 
when  age  and  enemies  call,  she  sends  them  to  face  the  fero- 
dous  tigers." 

The  company  at  length  departed.  Habib  wore  a  massy 
cuirass  of  Haoudi.  His  buckler  seemed  to  him  light,  but  would 
have  wearied  the  strongest  arm.  A  tree  of  the  thickness  of 
nis  lance  would  afford  a  considerable  shade ;  the  weight  of  hi« 
sciinetar  would  have  crushed  any  body  which  might  not  hava 
been  pierced  by  its  blade. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  43l 

The  fatigues  of  the  journey  were  nothing  to  him  who  march 
ed  on  to  glory  and  to  Dorathil-goase ;  the  way  seemed  to  M 
strewed  with  flowers ;  yet  now  was  Habib  in  the  midst  of 
deserts,  destitute  of  all  the  comforts  of  social  life,  and  exposed 
to  all  the  pains  of  thirst  and  hunger ;  from  time  to  time,  chance 
offered  some  wild  fruits,  and  the  scanty  trickling  of  some  dis- 
tant springs ;  these  little  supplies  were  sufficient  to  make  him 
forget  all  the  wants  and  inconveniences  he  suffered.  But  the 
soldiers  who  accompanied  the  young  sultan  were  neither  lovers 
nor  heroes ;  two  months  of  toilsome  travels  began  to  tire  them 
but  their  first  complaints  were  moderate.  By  a  lucky  acci- 
dent they  found  on  their  way  a  place  inhabited  by  shepherds, 
whi^h  afforded  them  enough  of  milk  to  fill  their  skins.  Habib 
expected  that  this  unhoped  for  refreshment  would  renew  their 
courage,  and  dispel  their  ill-humor ;  but  his  attendants,  think- 
ing it  impossible  to  climb  to  the  summit  of  mount  Caucasus, 
without  being  exposed  to  the  greatest  danger  of  perishing  by 
hunger  and  fatigue,  communicated  their  thoughts  to  the  young 
sultan. 

"  I  imagined,"  said  he,  "  that  my  father  had  given  me  men 
to  accompany  me  ;  but  you  are  only  women  in  the  armor  of 
men ;  I  will  not  abuse  the  weakness  of  your  sex.  However 
I  must  observe  that  you  have  already  come  too  far  to  turn 
back  without  exposing  yourselves  to  great  danger ;  but,  since 
you  think  the  dangers  before  us  still  more  formidable,  give  me 
my  part  of  the  treasure  which  my  father  put  into  your  hands. 
Take  with  you  your  baggage  and  camels.  I  can  lie  in  the 
open  air.  It  was  not  to  receive  your  assistance  that  I  accept- 
ed you  for  my  companions,  —  I  supposed  you  men  fond  01 
glory,  and  destined  to  attain  it.  I  was  willing  to  share  my 
own  glory  with  my  brave  Arabian  brethren.  This  is  a  title 
which  can  no  longer  suit  you  ;  let  us  part.  Go,  return  to  Sala- 
mis,  and  tell  him  that  you  have  left  his  son  following  out  th« 
paths  to  glory,  armed  with  vigor  and  courage,  under  the  pro- 
tection of  the  great  proph?t,  and  animated  with  the  strongest 
of  s  access." 


*32  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

The  firmness  of  this  language  astonished  the  yoimg  sultan'i 
companions,  bitt  did  not  move  them  from  tbeir  p'irpose.  They 
regarded  him  as  a  mad  and  obstinate  youth,  disposed  to  sacri- 
fice all  that  was  valuable  to  vain  chimeras.  We  are  accounta- 
ble for  our  lives,  said  they  among  themselves,  to  our  wives  and 
children ;  and  should  be  mad  were  we  to  yield  to  the  caprice 
of  a  foolish  youth  who  runs  headlong  upon  death,  while  he  is 
seeking  this  mount  Caucasus,  which  seems  to  fly  before  us ; 
our  harness  is  worn  out ;  our  horses  are  dying ;  we  shall  soon 
be  left  without  resource  amidst  the  deserts.  However,  added 
they,  if  we  return  without  him  to  Arabia,  Salamis  will  look 
upon  us  as  cowardly  deserters  from  his  son,  and  we  shall  not 
escape  his  vengeance.  If  this  Habib  should  die  here,  there  is 
no  lack  of  plants  to  embalm  him ;  we  could  put  his  body  on 
one  of  our  camels,  and  carry  it  quietly  back  to  his  father. 

Cowardice  leads  to  ingratitude ;  and  ungrateful  sentimenta 
to  wicked  actions.  Those  perfidious  friends  soon  concurred  in 
the  base  design  of  murdering  their  young  master.  But  how 
should  they  surprise  his  vigilance  ?  He  was  always  in  arms, 
and  always  ready  to  sell  his  life  at  a  dear  rate,  if  any  should 
attempt  to  ravish  it  from  him.  By  night  he  rested  on  hia 
buckler,  and  the  least  noise  would  awake  him  ;  his  valor  and 
activity  never  sunk  into  deep  sleep. 

Among  the  conspirators  was  one  who  viewed  the  criminal 
enterprise  with  abhorrence,  but  durst  not  speak  his  senti- 
ments. He  feared  the  resentment  of  the  rest  so  much  the 
more,  because  he  had  murmured  as  well  as  they.  By  re- 
vealing their  designs  to  Habib  again,  he  would  expose  the 
whole  troop  to  his  vengeance,  and  might  find  the  issue  fatal  to 
himself.  If  the  hero  were  victorious,  he  alone  would  remain 
to  attend  him. 

In  this  uncertainty,  he  spoke  thus  to  his  companions : 
"  Why,"  said  he,  "  would  you  expose  yourselves  to  the  danger 
of  a  contest  ?  Habib  had  his  poniard  always  in  h's  hand. 
Before  you  could  deprive  him  of  motion  even,  although  cov 
ered  with  your  cuirasses,  his  sword  would  find  its  way  to  ynu 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  488 

hearts.  But  there  is  a  surer  and  less  sanguinary  measure  which 
you  may  adopt.  I  know  an  herb  which  grows  in  these  places ; 
its  leaves  are  covered  with  a  white  powder,  which  operates  with 
greater  energy  than  opium.  I  will  gather  some  plants  ot  A  ;  and 
as  I  have  the  care  of  the  evening  provisions,  I  can  find  a  time 
.to  administer  to  him  this  specific ;  and  then  you  may  execute 
your  purpose  without  danger.  If  we  can  fulfil  our  intention 
by  laying  him  asleep,  why  should  we  stain  our  hands  with  his 
blood  ?  He  never  offended  any  of  us.  If  he  requires  us  to 
tiazaid  our  lives  in  pursuit  of  a  chimerical  object,  he  exposes 
his  own  with  sufficient  gallantry  at  the  same  time.  His  reason 
is  disordered,  and  he  hurries  forward  to  his  destruction ;  but 
cannot  we  provide  for  our  own  safety,  without  attempting  hia 
life  ?  He  is  son  to  the  brave  Salamis,  in  whose  dominions  our 
wives  and  children  sleep  in  peace ;  under  the  shadow  of  whose 
buckler,  our  flocks  pasture  in  security.  To  us,  he  was  always 
a  kind  father  Is  there  one  among  us  with  whom  he  has  not 
shared  his  provisions  to  the  last  morsel  ?  Let  us  beware  then 
of  shedding  innocent  blood  !  The  great  prophet  will  one  day 
demand  him  at  our  hands.  Let  us  leave  Habib  in  these  deserts ; 
after  we  have  deprived  him  of  his  arms,  and  of  all  means  of 
help  and  support,  we  need  not  fear  that  he  shall  ever  come  to 
tax  us  with  ingratitude." 

The  conspirators  hearkened  to  Rabir's  advice,  and  he  was 
employed  to  put  their  project  in  execution.  He  culled  some 
stalks  of  a  plant  which  he  knew  to  be  a  mortal  poison  ;  he  was 
careful  to  prepare  it  in  such  a  manner  that  death  would  not  be 
the  immediate  result  of  swallowing  it ;  and  on  that  very  even- 
ing an  opportunity  offered  for  administering  it. 

The  company  arrived  in  a  plain  where  the  cool  water  of  a 
small  rill  nourished  on  its  sides  a  quantity  of  fresh  and  luxuri- 
ant nerbage      Habib,  at  tl  eir  earnest  entreaty,  laid  down  to 
rest,  yielding  to  their  advice  rather  out  of  prudence  than  be 
cause  he  had  any  need  of  repose.     He  retired  in  unsuspecting 
security  to  his  tent,  took  some  food,  and  with  it  swallowed  a 
Dart  of  the  poison,  which  had  been  infused  into  a  cup  of  miJV 
•37 


434  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

The  conspirators  took  advantage  of  the  deep  sleep  which  soon 
seized  upon  their  chief,  removed  from  him  everything  they 
could,  and  departed  in  all  haste,  leaving  young  Habib  nothing 
but  his  buckler  under  his  head,  his  cloak  upon  which  he  slept, 
and  his  poniard  which  he  had  stuck  in  his  girdle.  Thus  did 
these  twenty  knights,  chosen  by  Salamis  to  attend  Jris  son, 
abandon  the  young  hero ;  they  returned  towards  Arabia  and 
ifter  undergoing  many  fatigues,  arrived  within  sight  of  the 
flags  which  waved  from  the  emir's  tents. 

That  moment  which  might  have  been  expected  to  be  to  them 
an  occasion  of  exulting  joy,  overwhelmed  them  with  anxiety, 
perplexity,  and  remorse.  "  How,"  said  they, "  shall  we  appear 
before  Salamis  ?  Or  how  tell  him  of  the  loss  of  his  son  ? 
Rabir,  you  who  contrived,  and  have  hitherto  so  well  managed 
the  scheme  by  which  we  rid  ourselves  of  the  youth,  help  us  to 
bring  it  to  a  happy  issue."  "  You  are  mistaken  in  respect  to 
my  purpose,"  replied  he  ;  "  when  I  saw  you  resolved  to  shed 
the  blood  of  young  Habib,  I  sought  to  divert  you  from  the 
crime,  by  pretending  to  assist  you  in  accomplishing  it.  With 
this  view  only  did  I  become  your  accomplice.  I  am  now,  how- 
ever, tortured  with  remorse.  I  cannot  invent  a  lie  to  conceal 
my  treachery.  My  looks,  my  silence,  my  confusion,  will  all 
'  nnd  to  betray  us.  Let  the  boldest  among  you  tell  the  fabri- 
cated tale ;  1  cannot.  It  is  impossible  for  me  to  help  you." 
"Well,"  replied  one  among  the  number,  "I  undertake  the 
task." 

The  caravan  arrived  in  the  camp  of  Salamis.  The  emir 
and  Amirala  came  eagerly  to  meet  the  company,  in  nopes  of 
again  seeing  their  son.  But  great  was  their  surprise,  when  they 
saw  tears  flew  from  every  eye.  He  who  had  undertaken  to 
speak,  advanced  before  the  rest,  and  thus  addressed  Salamis : 

"  Powerful  emir,  we  return  in  sorrow  for  the  mournful  ne  we 
we  must  tell.  But  why  should  we  seek  to  hide  what  you  can- 
not but  discovei  ?  You  seek  your  son  ;  but  heaven  lias  rav- 
ished him  from  your  hopes.  The  deserts  which  we  have  tra- 
versed are  full  of  venomous  serpents,  which  lie  concealed 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  435 

among  the  sands.  The  young  sultan  kneeling  down  one  even 
»iig  to  pray,  spread  his  mantle  before  him  on  the  ground,  but 
just  as  he  kneeled  upon  it,  a  serpent  sprung  up  and  stung  him 
;n  the  face.  The  mast  alarming  illness  instantly  followed,  and 
aeath  shortly  after  terminated  hi?  sufferings.  We  would  have 
embalmed  the  body,  and  brought  it  ba^k  with  us,  but  it  was  so 
infected  by  tb**  poison  that  we  were  obliged  to  cover  it  up 
hastily  in  the  sand,  in  order  to  avoid  the  pestilentia1  contagion 
with  which  it  threatened  us." 

At  this  news,  the  emir  rent  his  robe,  tore  his  beard,  and 
threw  dust  upon  his  body.  The  camp  resounded  with  the  cries 
of  the  inconsolable  Amirala,  and  Salamis's  sixty-six  tribes  put 
on  the  garb  of  mourning. 

In  the  mean  time  what  did  young  Habib  ?  Had  he  again 
opened  his  eyes  to  the  light  ?  or  had  the  force  of  the  poison 
deprived  the  queen  of  the  seven  seas  of  her  sweetest  hope  ? 

The  sun  appeared  in  all  his  glory  in  the  east,  through  a  hori- 
zon entirely  cleared  from  vapors,  and  darted  his  rays  on  Ha- 
bib's  eye-lids.  The  birds,  already  awake,  thrilled  their  notes 
upon  the  tops  of  the  trees  which  shaded  the  meadow ;  the 
balmy  fragrance  of  the  flowers  entered  the  nostrils  of  the  hero ; 
a  gentle  breeze  waved  his  hair,  and  softly  fanned  his  cheek ; 
all  nature  awaking  from  the  stillness  and  repose  of  night  con- 
curred to  rouse  him,  and  the  power  of  the  liquid  which  had 
been  administered,  being  now  gone,  could  no  longer  chain  down 
his  senses.  He  opened  his  eyes,  and  being  charmecf  with  the 
ravishing  sight  before  him,  imagined  himself  to  be  enjoying  the 
illusions  of  some  enchanting  dream. 

But  this  error  did  not  long  last.  He  arose,  and  recovered 
the  use  of  his  senses  and  his  memory.  He  sought  to  discover 
where  he  was,  but  all  around  remained  silent.  He  lifted  up  hia 
eyes,  and^aw  only  deserts  extending  in  the  distant  prospect  be* 
fore  him.  He  called  for  his  companions,  his  arms,  and  his  steed ; 
but  all  were  gone.  "  Oh  !  treason ! "  cried  he,  "  thy  knights  aru 
base  and  faithless ;  they  dread  toils  and  death  ;  to  escape  from 
ianger  they  have  not  feared  to  expose  themselves  to  infamy 
r,  napless  Arabia ! 


166  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

*  Hapless  Ai  abia !  thy  glory  ;»  10  more !  Tear  thy  hairs 
iast  dust  upon  thine  head ;  bathe  thy  face  jrith  tears ;  cry 
groan,  howl,  lament ;  let  the  tigers  and  panthers  hear  with  ter 
ror !  thou  hast  given  birth  to  base  and  disloyal  men !  Ah  i 
who  on  earth  can  be  loyal,  since  an  Arabian  knight  ceases  to 
be  so  ?  Men  !  you  shall  be  forever  abhorred ;  the  great 
prophet  has  despised  his  own  nation.  Ye  fertile  lands  of  our 
country,  the  seed  shall  wither  or  change  its  nature  in  youi 
bosom  ;  henceforth  shall  ye  bear  only  wild  fruits.  Ye  happy 
flocks  in  our  vales,  your  udders  shall  become  dry  ! 

u  Active  and  industrious  people  !  who  bear  rich  abundance, 
even  through  the  parched  plains  of  Hesebon  and  Philarioth  , 
who  said  to  the  desert,  thou  shalt  be  desert  no  more ;  see  the 
flags  of  your  tents  stream  through  the  air ;  enjoy  your  success ! 
And  you,  who  were  once  a  happy  people,  descended  from  those 
strong  places,  where  are  all  your  possessions,  disarm  yourselves 
Df  those  bucklers  and  lances,  which  vainly  load  your  arms ; 
prepare  for  flight  or  slavery  ;  the  darts  you  throw,  the  arrows 
shot  from  your  bows  are  become  useless  reeds,  now,  since  the 
honor  of  Arabia  is  no  more  !  Hold  out  your  hands  to  receive 
the  conqueror's  fetters  ;  where  virtue  resides  not,  liberty  can  no 
longer  subsist. 

"  Insult  no  more  the  effeminate  son  of  Egypt,  or  the  Syrian, 
who,  in  pursuit  of  riches,  commits  himself  to  the  inconstancy 
of  the  billows.  Remember  you  have  none  now  to  defend  you. 

"  O,  8alamis  !  O,  my  father !  when  you  shall  demand  back 
i'rom  those  base  cowards  the  treasure  with  which  you  entrusted 
hem  ;  when  your  awful  voice  shall  say,  where  is  my  son  ?  ah ! 
low  will  their  souls  be  filled  with  terror!  The  bowels  of  the 
<arth  shall  yawn  when  it  is  too  late,  and  swallow  them  up. 
ire  coward  souls,  return  not  to  Arabia.  Afflict  not  by  your 
j»ateful  presence,  those  whom  you  have  dishonored.  You  feared 
coil,  famine,  and  death,  if  you  should  follow  me ;  but  may  toils 
uid  famine  pursue  you  from  desert  to  desert ! 

'•  Thou  star  which  didst  preside  over  the  birth  of  Habib,  and 
LAS!  caU<*d  him  to  an  high  destiny  through  thickest  danger^ 


ENTERTAINMENTS  431 

ekfit  an  eye  now  upon  him.  He  despises  the  present  danger, 
and  marches  on  to  encounter  others.  May  thine  influence  thua 
enable  him  to  brave  all  dangers,  and  sustain  him  in  his  career  * 

"  Strength  of  the  Mussulmans !  fall  at  his  feet ! "  With 
these  words,  Habib  fell  on  his  knees  beside  the  spring,  per- 
formed his  ablution,  and  prayed  to  God  and  the  great  prophet^ 
with  more  fervor  no  doubt,  but  with  equal  calmness  as  if  he  had 
been  in  his  father's  tent. 

He  looked  towards  the  polar  star,  which  was  henceforward 
his  guide,  and  perceived  a  steep  and  lofty  mountain,  which  he 
determined  to  ascend.  He  saw  beside  him  his  mantle  and 
buckler.  "  Dear  gifts  of  heaven  ! "  cried  he,  "  you  have  been 
torn  out  of  the  hands  of  treachery,  you  shall  be  my  defence !  * 
he  next  found  his  poniard  in  his  girdle :  "  Fear  not,  Dora- 
thil-goase,"  said  he,  "  your  knight  is  not  disarmed  ;  enough  is 
left  him  wherewith  to  avenge  you  on  your  enemies." 

Before  setting  out,  he  provided  himself  with  some  wild 
plants,  of  which  II  Haboul  had  taught  him  the  use,  and  of 
which  the  roots  were  to  serve  him  for  food.  He  then  proceeded 
on  his  journey  with  less  anxiety  than  when  he  had  twenty  men 
accompanying  him  with  reluctance.  His  bare  head  bore  with- 
out inconvenience,  all  the  torrid  heat  of  the  sun.  Being  no  less 
agile  than  vigorous,  he  proceeded  with  great  speed ;  he  stopped 
only  to  pray  occasionally ;  and  from  time  to  time  refreshed  him- 
self by  chewing  the  roots  which  he  had  gathered. 

Before  night  he  reached  the  mountain  which  he  had  seen 
before  him  in  the  morning.  He  there  saw  a  deep  gully  full  of 
water ;  but  so  deep  that  it  could  not  be  reached  without  great 
irouble.  A  tree  hung  over  this  cavern,  which  had  been  hollowed 
out  by  the  force  of  torrents  from  the  mountains.  He  cut  tb« 
roots  of  another  tree  with  his  poniard,  joined  this  to  the  former, 
and  by  means  of  the  two,  glided  softly  down  to  the  bottom  of 
the  gully,  and  there  quenched  his  burning  thirst.  Yet,  so  much 
was  he  affected  by  this  unlooked-for  favor  from  heaven,  that  he 
would  not  satisfy  his  necessity  till  he  had  first  performed  hia 
ablution,  and  thanked  the  Author  of  nature,  and  Mohammod 

37* 


138  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

ftis  prophet.     After  this,  he  drank  and  cauie  ap  out  of  th% 


lie  was  obliged  to  pass  the  night  here,  and  to  keep  on  hi? 
guard  against  wild  animals.  At  the  distance  of  a  few  paces, 
ho  perceived  a  rock  hollowed  out  by  the  waters.  He  soon 
gathered  a  number  of  large  stones,  and  formed  a  sort  of  cavern, 
in  which  he  could  sleep  safely.  He  then  spread  his  mantle, 
laid  his  buckler  under  his  head  and  fell  asleep,  yet  not  without 
first  reflecting  on  his  situation. 

u  The  brave  man,"  said  he  to  himself,  "  finds  everywhere  a 
lent  ;  whereas  the  coward  knows  not  where  to  lay  hia  head. 

"  Happy  he  who  learns  in  camps  to  sleep  while  the  trumpet 
sounds  !  even  thunder  will  not  disturb  his  rest. 

"  H  Haboul  and  my  father  taught  me  to  become  a  man  ;  and 
Leie  I  am,  the  man  formed  by  my  father  and  II  Haboul. 

u  Salamis  !  II  Haboul  !  Dorathil-goase  !  behold  your  son, 
your  pupil,  your  lover.  He  rests  in  peace  upon  a  rock,  confi 
dent  that  he  shall  awake  to  glory. 

"  Ye  stars,  inimical  to  our  happiness  !  you  oppose  the  de- 
crees of  heaven,  and  shall  one  day  be  driven  from  it  ;  I  brave 
you  under  the  vast  mass  which  shelters  me  ;  a  pavilion  framed 
by  the  hands  of  men,  would  leave  me  exposed  to  your  ma- 
lignity." 

Habib  having  uttered  these  sentiments,  fell  asleep.  The 
savage  inhabitants  of  the  forest  discovering  the  tracks  of  the 
traveller's  footsteps,  came  to  prowl  around  the  cavern.  They 
uttered  dreadful  yells,  and  contended  for  their  prey,  before  they 
reached  him.  Love  might  have  held  the  lover  of  Dorathil« 
goase  awake,  but  fear  could  not  disturb  him.  He  was  in  need 
of  repose  ;  and  sleep,  notwithstanding  the  frightful  noise  of 
lions  and  tigers,  kindly  strewed  her  poppies  over  him. 

At  length  the  sun  arose,  and  his  rays  penetrated  through  the 
cninks  of  th(  cavern  in  which  young  Habib  lay.  He  awoke, 
came  out,  went  down  again  to  the  water,  washed  himself, 
prayed,  and  then  refreshing  himself  with  the  few  roots  he  had 
in  reserve,  resumed  his  mantle  and  buckler,  and  w$nt  on  hii 
•M. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  43* 

Hardly  had  he  reached  the  summil  of  one  mountain,  when 
mother  still  more  inaccessible,  rose  before  him.  No  road  nor 
path  by  which  it  was  possible  to  climb  up,  appeared.  He  might, 
'ndeed,  ascend,  by  leaping  and  scrambling  from  rock  to  rock, 
In  the  plain  he  had  to  travel  over  a  heavy  and  scorching 
sand ;  not  a  tuft  of  grass  was  to  be  seen  even  on  those  spots, 
which  were  best  sheltered  from  the  sun ;  not  a  drop  of  water ; 
nature  had  dried  all  up,  and  seemed  to  be  leading  the  travellei 
on  the  way  to  the  world  below. 

Habib,  worn  out  with  fatigue,  with  thirst  and  hunger,  now 
found  all  his  provision  of  roots  exhausted.  He  quickened  his 
pace,  that  he  might  reach  the  mountain  before  him  ere  it  were 
night.  He  at  length  gained  it,  but  found  no  spring  nor  gully. 
He  hastily  reared  a  hut  of  loose  stones,  within  which  he  shut 
himself  up,  overpowered  by  fatigue,  and  tortured  with  hunger. 
However,  he  tried  the  only  means  which  remained  by  which 
he  might  cool  his  tongue  and  palate.  Having  observed  the 
dews  fall  in  great  abundance  in  the  countries  through  whicb 
be  was  travelling,  he  spread  his  handkerchief  on  a  rock  witt- 
cut  the  cavern,  intending  to  squeeze  the  dew  from  it,  when  it 
should  have  imbibed  enough. 

After  taking  this  precaution,  which  saved  him  from  a  greater 
evil,  he  performed  the  duties  of  a  pious  Mussulman,  and  laid 
down  to  rest.  But  he  could  not  fall  asleep  without  commun 
ing  with  himself. 

"  Speak,"  said  he ;  "  Habib,  answer !  When  thou  wast  des- 
tined to  pursue  glory  through  the  midst  of  dangers,  did  fate  a! 
the  same  time  decree  that  thou  shouldst  find  means  of  support 
by  the  way  ? 

"  Thou  art  in  a  desert.  Ask  Mohammed  why  he  has  not 
ordered  Moses  to  rain  honey  and  manna  upon  thec,  as  they 
were  rained  upon  the  children  of  Abraham  ? 

«  Born  to  fight,  thou  dost  fight !  Be  firm,  Habib.  Heaven 
yj  for  thee ;  but  thou  must  also  act  for  thyself. 

"  The  applause  of  Salamis,  of  II  Haboul,  of  Amirala,  of 
Heaven  itself,  the  heart  and  hand  of  Dorathil -goase,  th*  thron* 


140  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

• 

of  the  seven  seas,  —  these  are  the  prizes  reserved  for  th) 
valor.  Pass  firmly  through  the  fire ;  thou  marches!  or  to 
^lory." 

Habib  thus  recovering  patience  and  courage,  slept  in  peace. 
He  awaked  with  the  dawn  of  morn  and  went  out  to  take  up 
his  handkerchief.  O  providence!  O  goodness!  The  linen 
which  he  wrung  into  the  hollow  of  a  stone  furnished  him  with 
a  cup  of  blessing,  a  most  delicious  beverage,  since  it  waa 
seasoned  by  want. 

His  heart  overflowed  with  gratitude,  and,  as  he  pursued  his 
journey,  he  said,  "  He  who  gave  me  the  dew,  taught  me  how 
to  avail  myself  of 'it.  Blessed  be  the  author  of  the  universe  ! 
ye  pointed  rocks,  calcined  by  the  sun  at  your  Creator's  word 
you  once  poured  forth  gushing  springs !  Thirst  and  hunger 
$ee  before  the  Lord  of  Nature.  The  stores  of  abundance  are 
opened  at  his  pleasure." 

The  traveller,  proceeding  on  his  way,  found,  between  two 
rocks,  a  tiger's  den.  The  female  was  there  with  her  young. 
At  sight  of  the  hero,  her  eyes  glared  with  keener  fires ;  her 
ha;r  stood  on  end ;  she  lashed  the  air  with  her  tail,  and  the 
rocks  re-echoed  her  roar.  She  sprung  upon  the  hero;  he 
opposed  her  with  his  buckler,  and  drawing  his  poniard,  plunged 
•t  with  a  firm  and  vigorous  hand  into  the  animal's  heart.  The 
tigress  fell ;  and  the  hero,  to  avail  himself  of  the  adventure  to 
the  best  advantage,  made  a  mantle  of  her  skin,  cut  away  such 
parts  of  her  body  as  he  could  use  for  food,  and  thanked  Heavei? 
and  Mohammed  for  his  victory. 

It  was  late,  and  he,  therefore,  needed  to  think  of  a  retreat 
for  the  night;  the  tiger's  den  afforded  him  one  ready  pre- 
pared. He  killed  the  young  tigers,  arranged  things  in  the 
most  commodious  manner  within,  and  shut  up  the  mouth  with 
a  large  stone,  upon  which  he  laid  out  his  handkerchief  to 
receive  the  dew.  He  then  laid  down  upon  the  skin  of  the 
tigress. 

After  the  dew  of  the  evening  was  fallen,  he  took  m  hia 
*»ar*tkerchief  and  squeezed  its  contents  into  the  skull  of  th* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  44l 

tigress,  ^'orae  bits  of  her  flesh  dried  in  the  sun  afforded  hiih 
a  few  delicious  morsels.  Haying  thus  satisfied  his  wants,  he 
laid  down  to  rest  from  his  fatigue,  arid  after  elevating  his  sou) 
with  the  most  sublime  ideas,  fell  asleep. 

"  The  blessings  of  the  Almighty,"  said  he,  "  are  diffused 
through  all  nature.  When  she  holds  them  back,  the  industrious 
man  can  force  them  from  her. 

"Thanks  to  thee,  O  Mohammed!  thou  hast  looked  with 
fevor  on  young  Habib,  deserted  by  his  friends  and  country3 
men !  Thou  hast  given  him  for  a  companion  one  of  thy  sub- 
ject spirits ! 

"  Every  thing  is  easy  to  me.  The  enemy  which  rose  up 
before  me,  fell  by  a  single  blow;  her  skin  serves  me  for  a 
garment ;  her  flesh  feeds  me,  and  I  drink  out  of  her  skull. 

"  Tremble,  ye  audacious  enemies  of  Dorathil-goase  ;  the 
knight  has  been  victorious,  even  unarmed.  He  marches  on 
under  the  protection  of  the  prophet  to  win  the  arms  of  Solo- 
mon. 

Habib,  invigorated  with  new  strength  and  courage,  antici- 
pated the .  dawn  of  day,  and  proceeded  on  his  journey  with 
greater  activity  than  ever.  But  he  saw  not  yet  the  term  of 
his  toils ;  new  obstacles  and  dangers  seemed  still  to  rise  before 
him.  Precipitous  hills  appeared  in  endless  succession ;  and 
from  their  summits  nought  was  to  be  seen  but  wide-spread 
deserts.  In  those  pathless  ways  which  man  had  never  trod, 
where  no  living  creature  was  to  be  seen  but  wild  beasts  which 
fled  before  him,  or  met  his  poniard ;  and  monstrous  serpents, 
which  he  was  obliged  to  crush  with  broken  rocks,  courage  was 
unnerved  by  uncertainty,  and  the  natural  vigor  of  the  hero 
Began  to  diminish. 

Upon  the  declivity  of  one  of  the  highest  hills  he  had  yet 
erossed,  when  he  "had  no  food  remaining  except  a  few  roots, 
He  looked  before  him,  and  saw  a  sandy  plain  terminated  by 
(be  horizon.  He  could  hope  for  no  relief  or  refreshment,  til] 
ne  should  have  crossed  that  wide  desert.  To  an  ordinary 
mac  this  would  have  been  matter  for  despair;  but  Habit 


ARABIAN    NIUHTS 

L  only  how  he  might  best  overcome  the  new  iifBcultie* 
to  whicn  he  here  saw  himself  exposed. 

He  "ould  not  travel  over  this  plain  by  day  witLout  being 
scorched  by  the  reflection  of  the  sun's  rays,  and  losing  the  use 
of  his  feet  among  the  burning  sands ;  nor  could  he  find  a  drop 
of  water  to  quench  his  thirst.  By  night,  how  should  he  form 
a  place  of  retreat  amidst  burning  sands?  The  tigers  and 
panthers  which  prowl  in  the  hours  of  darkness  might  seize 
him  unawares,  and  make  him  their  prey.  Habib  resolved  to 
rest  by  day,  and  by  night  to  proceed  on  his  journey,  under  the 
guidance  of  the  bright  northern  star. 

Ai  sight  of  the  ocean  of  sand  which  opened  before  him, 
while  the  sun  was  yet  in  his  meridian,  he  stopped,  and  by 
means  of  his  poniard,  disposed  his  buckler  so  as  to  shelter  his 
head  from  the  sun's  rays,  and  then  laid  down  upon  his  tiger's 
skin,  and  fell  asleep. 

Night  no  sooner  spread  her  curtain,  than  he  arose  and  went 
on.  The  handkerchief  for  receiving  the  dew  was  bound  about 
his  neck,  and  floated  over  his  shoulders ;  thus  he  could  quench 
his  thirst ;  but  how  should  he  satisfy  his  hunger  ?  Only  two 
of  the  roots  were  left,  and  he  knew  not  when  providence  would 
afford  him  another  supply.  However,  he  went  cheerfully  on ; 
and  he  proceeded  with  wonder  at  the  spectacle  which  the 
heavens  displayed  to  his  eyes. 

"  The  splendid  vault  of  heaven,"  said  he,  "  surrounds  all 
nature,  and  covers  even  the  naked  desert.  Is  there  a  single 
spot  on  earth  where  man  will  not  find  himself  forced  to  admire 
the  wonders  of  his  Creator's  power?  Should  I  go  down  int< 
the  bowels  of  the  earth,  there  would  I  find  gold  and  rubies. 
and  rivers  still  more  precious.  The  moon  rises  in  the  horizon 
to  supply  the  place  of  the  absent  sun.  The  stars,  dispensers 
of  the  dew,  have  already  advanced  before  her.  You  shall  De 
refreshed,  ye  barren  sands.  But  the  sun,  when  he  darts  his 
rays  upon  you,  cannot  mo^e  you.  Nothing  can  ever  fertilize 
your  barren  nature.  T^e  'mgrateoil  b^.art  is  like  the  sand  of 
the  desert.  The  faiors  of  bd<we*vi^c  *hower<*i  IU>OF  i^  ipith 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4-th 

fcut  making  any  impression  which  may  show  them  to  hav* 
been  there. 

"  Courage,  Habib !  thou  shalt  never  despise  what  has  beei? 
done  for  thee.  Behold  that  emotion  in  the  sky.  There,  at 
this  very  instant,  is  thy  destiny  weighed.  Away  then  with 
tear !  put  a  steady  and  vigorous  foot  on  the  balance ;  thou 
shalt  thus  weigh  it  down  to  thy  side.  See  how  calm  the  upper 
region !  There  are  thy  judges ;  Mohammed  and  his  seven 
prophets  are  soliciting  for  thee ! 

u  Great  Prophet,  friend  of  God !  a  Mussulman  cries  to  the*- 
in  the  desert ;  hear,  hear  his  voice ! 

"  The  object  he  pursues  is  worthy  of  a  hero.  Thou  wast 
on  earth  a  model  for  heroes.  Glory  and  love  inflame  his 
heart !  Thou  disdainest  none  who  bear  the  stamp  of  virtue." 

Thus  Habib,  as  he  travelled,  forgot  his  wants  and  fatigues. 
As  he  looked  towards  the  desert  he  thought  he  discerned  a 
small  black  spot.  "  At  last,"  said  he,  "  this  plain  has  limits ; 
what  I  see  is  no  doubt  a  mountain,  or  a  collection  of  vapors 
over  some  tract  of  inhabitable  country.  Thou  shalt  see  meo, 
Habib.  The  passions,  indeed,  arm  us  against  one  another ; 
but  man  always  rejoices  at  the  sight  of  his  fellow.  These 
have,  perhaps,  never  seen  the  child  of  Providence ;  I  shall 
show  him  to  them,  and  force  them  to  believe  in  Providence. 
I  will  not  say  I  must  have  gold,  silver,  flocks,  tents,  or  slaves ! 
I  will  only  ask  a  pitcher  of  water,  a  handful  of  rice,  and  the 
road  to  Caucasus ! " 

Habib  in  vain  made  prodigious  efforts  to  reach  the  black 
spot.  It  still  appeared  at  the  same  distance.  He  was  tortured 
to  agony  by  hunger  and  thirst,  and  scorched  by  the  burning 
heat.  He  stopped  at  length,  and  laid  down.  His  imagination, 
filbd  with  ideal  hopes,  soon  soothed  him  into  sleep.  The 
coolness  of  the  evening  awaked  him.  He  had  been  tossed 
(jnd  agitated  with  painful  dreams.  A  rivulet  seemed  to  run 
backwards  to  it  source,  to  refuse  him  drink ;  abundance  of 
aumptuous  meats  were  set  before  him,  but  before  he  could 
taste  the~n  they  were  removed  by  invisible  hands.  He 


4  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

greatly  fatigued,  and  hoped  that  after  continuing  his  journey 
through  the  night,  by  morning  to  have  reached  the  object 
towards  which  his  eyes  were  constantly  directed.  lie  exerted 
all  his  strength,  and  used  every  means  to  withstand  the  fatigue 
which  exhausted  him.  Strong  in  his  own  courage  solely,  he 
yet  triumphed,  and  rose  superior  to  himself. 

Day  at  length  returned ;  but  still  the  black  spot  appeared  at 
the  same  distance  as  before.  Habib's  feet  were  uncovered,  and 
the  torrid  sand  scorched  them ;  one  cloud  of  dust  was  still 
blown  upon  him  after  another,  and  his  strength  was  entirely 
exhausted  ;  everything  seemed  to  fail  him,  and  he  became  al- 
most hopeless.  He  spread  the  tiger's  skin  upon  the  sand,  fell 
down  with  his  knees  upon  it,  and  raising  his  hands,  thus  ad- 
dressed his  ardent  prayer  to  heaven,  calling  out  in  a  voice  of 
grief  mixed  with  confidence  :  — 

u  I  am  lost^  in  an  ocean  of  sand,  the  limits  of  which  I  cannot 
perceive.  The  earth  flees  before  me  like  a  cloud.  I  have 
called  on  the  burning  sand  to  afford  me  water  for  ablution ;  i/ 
obeyed,  and  I  am  purified.  The  Creator  will  bring  the  earth 
to  meet  me,  and  supply  my  wants. 

"  See,  my  feet  refuse  to  bear  me,  my  legs  stagger,  my  knees 
bend  ;  yet  I  will  crawl,  even  on  my  belly,  to  the  place  whither 
I  am  called  by  the  decrees  of  fate.  But  what  wilt  thou  say, 
O  great  Prophet,  to  see  a  child  of  thy  tribe  crawl  like  a 
worm  ?  " 

While  he  thus  spoke,  and  his  eyes  were  still  fixed  on  the 
object  towards  which  he  seemed  to  be  vainly  travelling,  he  ob- 
served a  point  parting  from  it,  and  moving  towards  him  through 
the  air ;  it  sailed  for  some  time  through  the  firmament,  after 
which  it  came  down.  .It  proved  to  be  a  bird  of  monstrous  size. 
It  was  a  roc.  It  alighted  within  fifty  paces  of  him,  and  there 
rested  for  some  time,  motionless. 

Habib  arose  and  advanced  towards  the  bird.  As  soon  as  he 
was  near  enough  to  be  heard :  "  Bird,"  said  he,  "thou  art  a 
creature  of  the  Lord ;  and  I  respect  thee  as  a  production  of 
Ws  power.  If  thou  art  sent  to  the  assistance  of  an  unfortunate 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  440 

but  faithful  Mussulman,  abandoned  by  his  brethren,  I  command 
thee,  in  the  name  of  God,  and  his  prophet,  to  give  some  sigfl 
by  which  I  may  know  that  thou  art  sent  by  tnem.  ~ 

The  roc  immediately  extended  its  wings,  clapped  them  three 
times,  and  bowed  its  head  to  Habib.  The  young  sultan  went 
close  up  to  it,  and  perceived  a  damask  cushion  suspended  be- 
tween its  feet  by  silken  cords ;  he  caught  hold  of  the  cords, 
*nd  seated  himself  upon  the  cushion.  No  sooner  was  he  thus 
placed,  than  the  bird  arose  and  flew  aloft  into  the  air. 

"  The  earth  which  seemed  to  flee  before  me,  now  recedes 
ander  my  feet,"  said  Habib,  as  he  was  carried  upwards  among 
the  clouds.  "  Ye  frightful  piles  of  sand,  ye  are  no  more  than 
a  grain  of  dust  to  my  eyes  !  Present  famine  and  death  to  the 
monsters  and  venomous  reptiles  which  inhabit  you ;  you  can 
do  nothing  against  the  slave  of  God,  the  servant  of  the  great 
prophet ;  a  path  is  opened  to  him  through  the  air.  Thou  bird, 
who  art  the  messenger  of  the  Most  High,  obey  the  orders  of  a 
faithful  Mussulman.  Bear  him  to  mount  Caucasus,  where  the 
arms  of  the  sage  and  powerful  Solomon  are  deposited. 

The  obedient  roc  bore  young  Habib  to  the  mountain  which 
was  the  destined  term  of  his  journey.  His  senses  were  con- 
founded by  the  rapidity  of  its  flight,  which  increased  his  weak- 
ness. II  Haboul  received  him,  and  bore  him  to  a  place  whero 
an  agreeable  warmth  soon  revived  him. 

When  with  the  return  of  his  strength  he  recovered  sense, 
his  lips  opened  with  expressions  of  gratitude.  "  What !  is  it 
you,  my  dear  H  Haboul  ?  you  have  not  forsaken  me,  then  I " 

"  The  orders  of  my  superiors,  O  valiant  sultan,  have  brought 
you  hither,"  replied  the  geni.  "  A  bird  of  the  great  Solomon's 
has  borne  you  from  the  desert ;  I  am-  appointed  to  receive 
7ou ;  you  will  easily  judge  how  pleasant  I  find  the  task.  I  am 
ZM>t  unacquainted  with  the  treachery  to  which  you  have  been 
exposed,  or  the  distress  which  you  have  suffered  in  the  desert, 
or  the  afflictions  of  Salamis,  your  father.  I  am  the  keeper  of 
the  Measures  of  Solomon  which  are  deposited  in  the  bowels  of 
the  3arth,  and  without  his  orders  dare  not  remove  ;  otherwise* 

38 


446  ARABIAN    NTCfHTS 

I  would  have  come  to  your  assistance.  It  is  the  will  of  heaveti 
that  virtue  be  proved  by  trials ;  and  you  have  undergone  a 
very  severe  trial.  The  sufferings  of  emir  Salamis,  and  Ami- 
rala  are  not  less  than  yours.  Crowns  of  glory  await  you< 
but  they  must  be  taken  by  violence.  Such  is  the  lot  of  ail 
who  are  highly  favored  among  the  sons  of  men.3* 

While  he  spoke  thus,  a  collation  was  set  upon  the  table  eon*- 
listing  of  such  meats  as  were  not  too  heavy  or  cloying  to  ft 
Btomach  of  which  the  powers  were  worn  out  by  long  abstinence, 

Habib  proceeded  to  refresh  himself;  but  was  surprised  at 
the  same  time  to  find  such  plenty,  even  of  delicacies,  amidst  the 
most  dreary  desert  in  nature. 

"  This  is  the  abode  of  enchantment,"  said  II  Haboul.  "  No 
resource  can  be  wanting  to  the  great  Solomon.  To  his  wisdom 
all  nature  is  subject.  Before  he  went  to  take  his  place  beside 
our  great  prophet,  he  buried  his  treasures  here,  to  hide  them  from 
the  daring  avarice  of  men,  who  seldom  find  enjoyment  except 
in  the  abuse  of  what  providence  bestows.  Here  are  the  arms 
deposited  with  which  he  combatted  rebellious  men  and  spirits. 
Illabousatrous,  grandfather  to  Dorathil-goase,  I,  and  the  genii 
of  the  race  of  Eblis,  felt  our  inferiority  ere  it  was  too  late,  and 
submitted  without  resistance.  Others  were  less  wise  than  we, 
and  are  shut  up  in  dungeons  not  far  distant.  The  formidable 
Abarikaff,  with  whom  you  are  to  contend,  with  a  number  of 
others,  have  made  their  escape  by  flight,  by  fraud,  and  even 
by  force. 

"  Hitherto,  my  dear  Habib,  you  have  shown  unshrinking 
firmness,  and  displayed  your  strength  and  courage  in  combat- 
ting wild  beasts.  Want  and  difficulties  have  not  slackened 
your  valor.  The  eye  that  watches  over  you  has  assisted  you 
when  you  could  do  nothing  for  yourself.  When  the  roc 
alighted  before  you,  you  had  yet  five  icy  mountains  to  pass, 
before  you  could  have  reached  the  summit  of  Caucasus,  which 
you  had  seen  at  two  hundred  leagues  distance.  But  th« 
Bangers  which  now  await  you,  are  of  a  different  sort.  It  it 
lot  by  the  exertion  of  strength  they  are  to  be  opposed  5  but  by 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  447 

salm  fortitude ;  by  courage,  which  no  terrors  can  me  ve  Tfaua 
siiall  you  penetrate  into  the  treasury  of  the  great  Solomon,  and 
bring  out  the  arms  which  no  power  can  resist.  As  soon  as  your 
body  shall  be  reinvigorated  by  rest,  I  will  speak  to  you  con- 
cerning the  tasks  you  have  to  fulfil,  and  the  means  to  be  em- 
ployed." 

After  this,  H  Haboul  made  his  pupil  enter  his  cavern,  and 
then  furnished  him  with  conveniences  for  rest  after  his  fatigues. 
Exhausted  as  Habib  was,  more  than  one  day  was  necessary  to 
restore  his  health,  and  fit  him  for  the  enterprise  in  which  he 
was  about  to  engage.  Had  it  not  been  for  the  authority  which 
the  geni  had  assumed  over  him,  from  his  infancy,  it  might  have 
been  difficult  to  restrain  so  passionate  a  lover.  But  the  sage 
II  Haboul  could  avail  himself  of  a  power  which  long  habit 
had  confirmed ;  and  he  accordingly  prevailed  with  his  pupil  to 
expose  himself  to  no  new  trials,  till  he  should  have  fully  recov- 
ered his  strength.  In  the  mean  time,  he  informed  him  what 
was  to  be  done  in  order  that  he  might  accomplish  the  purpose 
of  his  journey  to  mount  Caucasus. 

"  My  dear  Habib,"  said  he,  "  you  are  called  by  destiny  to  be 
the  avenger  of  Dorathil-goase,  and  to  punish  the  rebellion  of 
the  barbarous  AbarikafF.  The  dominions  of  that  princess  lie 
at  a  vast  distance.  Deserts  as  immense  as  those  you  have  tra- 
versed, divide  you  from  the  seas  which  surround  the  seven 
islands ;  and  if  you  should  think  of  going  by  sea,  the  road  to 
the  snore  is  neither  short  nor  open.  The  only  way  is  through 
the  centre  of  the  earth.  But  what  care  and  prudence  are  requi- 
site, that  you  may  travel  successfully  by  this  line!  What 
energy  of  mind  must  you  possess,  my  dear  sultan,  if  you  can 
undertake  so  dangerous  a  journey !  If  forty  brazen  gates, 
guarded  by  malevolent  genii  endowed  with  extraordinary 
strength  and  courage,  shall  stop  you  ;  if  confusion  and  forget- 
fulness  surprise  you  but  for  a  moment,  you  will  be  exposed 
lo  ths  greatest  of  all  misfortunes  1 

a  You  must  pass  through  all  the  rooms  in  which  Solomon'g 
treasures  are  deposited.  The  first  of  these  contains  the  mostf 


44S  ARABIAN    MGHTS' 

precious  of  all,  those  very  arm*  with  which  he  attained  thai 
high  degree  of  power  which  astonished  the  world.  This  part 
is  the  least  strictly  guarded,  and  the  most  open  to  the  researches 
of  men.  Happy  would  they  be  if  they  could  content  themselves 
with  penetrating  thus  far,  and  acquiring  those  arms,  without 
dosiring  to  advance  farther. 

tt  Solomon  surpassed  all  the  men  on  the  earth  in  knowledge, 
He  fixed  its  principles  and  illustrations  by  three  hundred  an*! 
eixty-six  hieroglyphics,  each  of  which  required  a  day's  appli- 
cation from  even  the  ablest  understanding,  before  its  myste- 
rious sense  could  be  understood.  Would  you  take  time  to  pen- 
fitrate  into  these  mysteries  ? "  "I  love  Dorathil-goase,"  said 
Habib ;  "  she  is  in  danger  ;  I  must  have  the  arms  to  fight  with 
AbarikafF ;  I  shall  endeavor  to  acquire  this  knowledge  after  I 
have  conquered  him."  "  It  is  possible  to  be  less  inexcusable 
for  such  a  failure  in  you  ;  but  since  Solomon  left  the  earth,  five 
hundred  knights  have  penetrated  into  these  deserts  ;  all  have 
neglected  the  studies  which  I  propose  to  you,  and  gone  in  search 
of  the  treasures  deposited  in  the  cavities  of  this  immense  sub- 
terraneous recess.  They  would,  first  of  all,  gratify  their  pas- 
sions, and  not  one  of  them  has  returned ;  they  have  all  failed 
through  ignorance.  Let  us,  however,  strive  to  save  you  from 
the  same  disgrace. 

"  I  will  conduct  you  to  the  first  gate  ;  at  your  feet  you  will 
see  a  golden  key ;  pick  it  up,  and  open  the  gate  ;  the  bolt  of  the 
lock  you  may  move  by  the  slightest  effort.  Be  careful  to  shu 
the  gate  behind  you,  PO  gently  that  it  may  not  make  the  least 
noise. 

In  the  nrst  hall  you  will  find  a  black  slave  of  a  gigantic  ska 
Forty  keys  of  the  other  apartments  through  which  you  are  to 
pass,  are  suspended  by  <t  chain  of  diamonds,  which  hangs  from 
las  left  hand.  At  sight  of  you  he  will  utter  a  tremendous  yell, 
which  will  shake  the  vaults  of  the  subterranean  rooms,  and 
will  at  the  same  time  raise  over  your  head  an  enormous  sci me- 
ter. Preserve  your  soul  unmoved  with  fear ;  look  upon  his 
vrire;  you  know  I  have  taught  you  to  read  the  talismank 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  14* 

characters.  Pronounce  aloud  the  words  written  Mpon  the 
blade ;  commit  them  to  memory,  so  that  whatever  trials  and 
dangers  you  may  be  exposed  to,  they  may  never  be  effaced, 
Your  safety  depends  upon  them. 

"  The  slave  will  then  become  subject  to  you.  You  must  dis- 
arm him,  and  take  from  him  the  keys,  and  the  scimetar  of  the 
great  Solomon ;  but  you  will  look  in  vain  for  the  talisman  ;  it 
will  disappear  at  the  moment  you  pronounce  the  words  of  which 
it  consists.  You  will  then  open  the  first  of  the  forty  doors, 
and  shut  it  behind  you,  with  the  same  precautions  as  before. 
There  you  will  see  the  arms  of  Solomon ;  but  touch  not  his 
casque,  his  cuirass,  nor  his  buckler.  You  have  his  scimetar, 
and  it  is  not  with  steel  you  are  to  arm  yourself.  Solomon  was 
victorious  through  courage,  vigor,  patience  and  prudence.  Four 
statues,  engraved  with  hieroglyphics,  will  exhibit  before  you 
representations  of  these  four  virtues.  Reflect  long  upon  those 
emblems,  and  learn  to  decipher  their  meaning.  These  are 
arms  whicn  can  never  be  taken  from  you.  Examine  carefully 
the  arms  of  the  prophet,  as  well  as  the  scimetar  of  the  slave. 
The  knowledge  you  may  acquire  from  them  will  enable  you  to 
vanquish  all  enemies  that  may  rise  up  against  you  ;  but  with- 
out this,  and  without  retaining  in  your  memory  the  characters 
engraven  on  the  sabre,  remember  that  you  have  in  your  hands 
nothing  but  a  piece  of  steel,  which  rust  and  the  teeth  of  time 
will  consume  away. 

"  When  you  have  stayed  in  the  first  apartment  as  long  as 
you  think  proper,  you  may  then  with  a  bound  advance  over  the 
epace  which  leads  to  the  second  hall.  Open  and  shut  this  door 
with  the  same  care  as  before.  The  sabre  which  you  wear,  and 
the  words  which  you  pronounce,  will  make  you  master  of  the 
slaves  which  guard  the  door,  whoever  they  are.  I  shall  not 
enter  into  a  particular  detail  of  the  immense  riches  which  you 
will  find  here.  In  the  eyes  of  Solomon,  gold  and  jewels  wera 
things  of  small  price,  although  he  employed  them  in  construct- 
ing works,  the  memory  of  which  shall  last  forever ;  yet  ne  re- 
them  with  pleasure  to  the  bowels  of  the  earth,  from 

as* 


I5C  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

which  his  knowledge  had  enabled  him  to  extract  them  fl«! 
thought  them  not  necessary  to  the  happiness  of  men. 

"  li,  in  passing  through  these  forty  halls,  you  meet  with  any 
one  object  whose  nature  you  cannot  comprehend,  rub  the  blade 
ot  your  scimetar,  repeat  the  words  which  you  must  have  taken 
care  to  remember,  and  you  will  thus  discover  the  sense  of  the 
enigmas  presented  to  you. 

"  I  have  no  need  O  virtuous  sultan,  to  warn  you  against 
avarice,  or  indiscretion,  the  first  causes  of  the  loss  of  those 
knights  who  tried  this  perilous  adventure  before  you.  You 
nave  learned  in  the  tents  of  emir  Salamis,  in  what  true  riches 
and  real  power  consist.  Gold  gave  no  lustre  to  his  pavilions, 
nor  was  he  forced  first  to  gather  and  then  to  scatter  it.  A 
formidable  army  marched  when  he  gave  the  signal.  A  wise 
choice  of  things  useful,  and  contempt  of  superfluities,  consti- 
tuted his  abundance. 

"  Curiosity  is  also  a  fault  against  which  you  must  be  upon 
your  guard.  Remember  that,  whatever  can  move  curiosity,  in 
the  path  on  which  you  are  entering,  must  be  extremely  danger- 
ous to  the  man  who  is  unacquainted  with  the  three  hundred 
and  sixty-six  truths,  the  only  principles  of  the  wisdom  of 
Solomon. 

"  Above  all,  when  you  have  opened  the  fortieth  door,  withir 
which  your  subterraneous  journey  terminates,  beware  of  look 
ing  curiously  at  what  you  shall  see.  A  veil  of  silk,  and  golden 
characters  in  relief,  shall  meet  your  eyes.  Turn  from  them. 
If  you  read,  it  is  your  death-warrant,  and  will  be  instantly 
execuled ;  but  lift  up  the  curtain,  and  you  will  be  struck  with 
the  most  beautiful  sight  that  can  be  beheld,  if  you  have  wisely 
observed  all  the  rules  of  prudence  which  I  have  taught  you. 
You  will  see  the  first  of  the  seven  seas,  which  you  must  pass 
before  you  can  join  Dorathil-goase,  and  you  will  find  every- 
thing ready  to  conduct  you  thither.  But  if  you  fail  in  a  single 
point  of  the  instructions  which  I  have  given  you,  you  will  be 
exposed  to  the  most  dreadful  dangers."  "  It  is,  perhaps,  un- 
fortunate for  me,"  replied  Habib,  that  I  am  a  stranger  to  fear 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  461 

Itnd  A  it  be  so,  I  may  blame  you,  and  Salamis,  and  Amirala 
You  taught  me  to  arm  my  breast  against  every  sentiment  of 
terror,  and  perhaps,  to  depend  with  too  much  confidence  on  nry 
own  strength.  But  I  shall  strive  to  practise  the  lessons  which 
you  taught  me." 

»4  March  on,  then,  valiant  hero,  under  the  eyes  of  the  great 
Solomon.  May  his  spirit  accompany  you.  I  form  the  warm- 
set  wishes  for  your  success,  and  in  it  shall  I  find  the  recompense 
for  the  pains  which  I  took  in  your  education." 

11  Haboul  deposited  in  his  cavern  the  skin  of  the  tigress,  the 
buckler,  and  the  poniard  which  the  sultan  bore.  He  dressed 
him  in  a  light  and  simple  garb,  the  most  suitable  for  the  enter- 
prise in  which  he  was  engaging.  The  geni  then  took  him  by 
the  hand,  and  led  him  through  a  winding  alley  of  the  cavern 
to  the  first  brazen  door  of  which  they  perceived  the  key. 

"  Take  this  key,"  said  his  governor.  "  Forget  not  when  you 
shall  see  the  sabre  of  the  first  slave  raised  over  your  head,  to 
pronounce  aloud  the  talismanic  characters  inscribed  upon  ita 
blade.  Read  them  with  such  care  that  you  may  never  forget 
them.  Repeat  them  upon  every  appearance  of  danger,  as  well 
within  as  without  the  immense  cavern  you  are  going  to  traverse. 
Open  and  shut  the  doors  with  the  greatest  caution  ;  remember 
that  in  this  recess  all  is  symbolical,  and  that  your  actions  must 
correspond.  You  will  not  forget  my  other  advices ;  but  I  have 
insisted  more  particularly  upon  the  most  important.  Embrace 
me,  my  dear  Habib  !  I  return  whither  duty  calls  me."  H 
Haboul  retired.  Habib  opened  and  shut  the  first  door  softly. 
He  perceived  a  gigantic  black,  who,  when  he  saw  him,  uttered 
a  cry  tf  hich  resounded  through  the  vaults  of  the  first  grotto. 
The  monster  raised  his  dreadful  scimetar.  Habib,  watchful 
cast  his  eyes  upon  the  blade,  and  pronounced  aloud  the  word, 
power,  which  he  saw  written  upon  it  in  letters  of  gold.  The 
slave  w-is  instantly  disarmed.  The  scimetar  and  keys  fell  U> 
gether  from  his  hand,  and  he  bowed  down  before  his  coir 
qucror. 

The  young  sultan  seized  the  redoubtable  weapon,  adv&noed 


*52  AKAbfAN   NIGHTS' 

to  the  second  door,  and  it  opened  to  him.  Seven  differs*- 
roads  appeared,  but  all  were  dark.  Uncertain  which  to  choosy 
he  pronounced  in  a  loud  voice,  the  enchanted  word.  A  pair 
and  glimmering  light  then  became  visible  at  the  entrance,  upot 
the  fourth  road.  He  pursued  a  light  down  a  flight  of  fourteen 
hundred  and  ninety  steps. 

He  came  then  to  the  third  door,  still  continuing  to  conduct 
himself  with  the  same  prudence.  He  was  received  by  two 
monsters,  who  were  half-women,  who  brandished  two  enormous 
grappling  hooks  of  iron,  to  seize  him.  He  pronounced  the 
word  power  ;  the  iron  became  soft,  and  the  monsters  fled. 

Habib  was  struck  with  a  ravishing  sight.  A  lustre  of  car- 
buncles illuminated  a  round  hall,  the  roof  of  which  was  sup- 
ported by  columns  of  jasper.  The  armor  of  the  great  Solo- 
mon appeared  as  a  trophy  in  the  centre ;  the  phoenix  expand- 
ing all  her  feathers,  crowned  the  casque.  The  glance  of  the 
cuirass  and  the  buckler  was  brighter  than  the  eyes  of  man 
could  bear ;  the  steel-pointed  lance  sparkled  like  fire.  There 
was  no  scimetar ;  but  Habib  with  pleasure  observed  that  the 
scimetar  he  held  in  his  hand  corresponded  to  the  other  pieces 
of  the  armor.  Mysterious  characters  were  engraven  upon  all 
those  weapons ;  of  these  he  tried  to  discover  the  s*;nse,  and 
read  on  the  cuirass :  "  Firmness  of  soul  is  the  best  c'  /rass  man 
can  put  on." 

He  proceeded,  and  found  on  the  other  parts  of    .he  armor 
"  Patience  is  his  buckler.     His  tongue  is  his  str  igest  lance- 
Wisdom  must  be  his  casque.     Prudence  his  viz^r.     Without 
valor  his  arms  are  defenceless.     Without  constancy  his  leg! 
are  infirm." 

"  O  great  Solomon  I "  cried  the  hero,  "  the  Phoenix  still 
proudly  expands  its  feathers  on  the  crest  of  your  helmet. 

"  Cover  yourselves  with  coats  of  mail,  ye  feeble  warriors  of 
the  earth  I  The  prophet  of  the  Almighty  marched  on  to  vic- 
tory through  the  aid  of  virtue." 

Habib  next  contemplated  the  three  hundred  and  sixty-six 
Hieroglyphics  which  ornamented  the  walls  of  the  saloon.  On« 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  45ft 

*f  these  was  singularly  simple  in  its  nature,  yet  te  could  noi 
comprehend  its  meaning.  Another  more  complicated  imme- 
diately discovered  its  mysterious  import.  The  three  hundred 
and  sixty-six  hieroglyphics  explained  themselves,  yet  can  only 
be  explained  one  by  one. 

"  Science  ! "  said  he,  "  thou  wast  made  for  my  heart ;  I  feel 
it ;  but  my  understanding  is  far  from  thee.  Who  shall  give 
me  the  eyes  of  the  lynx  to  penetrate  thy  mysteries  ?  The 
lustre  with  which  thou  shinest  in  my  eyes  forces  me  to  turn 
them  downwards. 

"  Habib !  march  on  to  thy  destiny ;  a  crown  of  glory  is  pro- 
mised thee.  Wisdom  descends  from  the  heaven  of  heavens ; 
desire  it  still  more  and  more,  and  proceed  on  thy  career  under 
the  propitious  influence  of  thy  star ! " 

As  he  spoke  thus,  he  advanced  towards  the  door  by  which 
he  was  to  be  admitted  into  the  apartments  where  Solomon's 
riches  were  deposited.  Descending  by  new  flights  of  steps, 
and  by  winding  paths,  he  came  to  the  different  doors,  which 
ne  successively  opened  and  shut  without  noise.  Wherever  he 
advanced  he  met  with  monsters  that  strove  to  terrify  him,  by 
displaying  their  deformity,  and  by  their  cries  and  menaces. 
Of  one  the  head  resembled  a  human  skull,  armed  with  horns, 
an&  terminating  before  in  an  eagle's  bill.  In  another  the  three 
forms  of  a  lion,  a  tiger  and  an  elephant,  were  monstrously 
blended  together.  A  hydra  Having  three  women's  heads,  with 
twisted  serpents  for  hair,  presented  itself  among  the  rest,  to 
terrify  our  hero. 

But  Habib,  armed  with  undaunted  courage,  and  faithful  to 
the  counsels  of  the  geni,  awed  with  a  word  these  threatening 
phantoms,  and  looked  with  indifference  upon  the  heaps  of  gold 
and  diamonds,  and  the  broken  idols  which  lay  before  him. 
He  passed  rapidly  from  one  door  to  another,  where  the  objects 
which  he  saw  exhibited  no  sign  symbolical  of  the  prophet's 
victories.  He  *  topped,  however,  at  one  place. 

It  was  an  immense  hall,  around  which  an  infinite  numbef 
»f  beings  in  the  human  form  were  seated.  T  aey  appeared  to 


*{>t  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

be  it'teninft  to  the  most  venerable  person  in  the  company,  whrt 
was  seated  upon  an  elevated  seat,  before  a  reading-desk,  and 
read  aloud.  When  Habib  entered,  the  whole  assembly  rose, 
and  bowed  to  the  hero.  The  reader  paused  out  of  respect  to 
him,  and  the  sultan,  addressing  himself  to  that  venerable  per 
son,  spoke  as  follows : 

"  If  you  are  at  liberty  to  inform  me,  tell  me  who  you  are, 
and  what  it  is  you  are  reading?"  "I  am  a  geni,  slave  to 
Solomon/  said  the  reader;  u  my  task  is  to  instruct  my  breth- 
ren, whom  you  see  here ;  they  will  be  set  at  liberty  when 
they  shall  nave  acquired  all  the  knowledge  necessary  for  the 
direction  o^  their  conduct.  The  book  I  read  is  the  Alcoran. 
Alas !  I  have  explained  it  to  them  for  these  several  centuries, 
and  yet  there  are  still  an  eighth  part  of  my  hearers  who 
understand  not  tven  the  first  line !  Proceed,  young  Mussul- 
man; you  have  nothing  to  learn  either  from  them  or  me; 
follow  your  destiny,  and  continue  to  be  as  circumspect  as  you 
have  been."  » 

Habib  left  this  school,  reflecting  with  himself  how  difficult 
it  is  to  understand  the  word  of  God  when  we  are  not  disposed 
to  listen  to  it.  He  blessed  God  and  his  Prophet  that  he  had 
been  instructed  in  his  earliest  years  in  the  truths  of  the  Al- 
coran. 

The  young  sultan  had  now  opened  and  shut  nine-and-thirty 
doors.  He  had  been  five  days  in  passing  those  subterranean 
recesses ;  places  where  the  sun  comes  not  to  indicate  the  lapse 
of  time ;  where  ages  after  ages  roll  on  unperceived ;  places 
inhabited  by  those  beneficent  spirits  who  are  ever  actively 
employed  in  promoting  the  happiness  of  the  faithful,  and  are 
not  subject  to  the  malignant  power  of  their  neighbors. 

Habib  passed  not  into  the  dungeons  where  the  wicked  genii 
live,  under  a  law  in  its  nature  and  tendency  directly  opposite, 
Over  them  the  scythe  of  time  moves  with  a  motion  which 
cannot  be  calculated.  All  the  vices  of  the  world  spring  up 
»md  thrive  in  their  perverse  souls ;  and  they  are  subjected  tc 
the  tyranny  of  <  very  lawless  appetite  and  paevsion. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  45ft 

Our  hero  had  not  counted  the  number  of  the  doc  is  ibrougi 
which  he  had  passed.  Still  J4s  a  new  one  obstructed  his  progress, 
its  key  sprung  from  the  bunch  in  his  hand,  and  spontaneously 
placed  itself  in  the  lock.  At  last  he  stood  before  he  fortieth 
door.  It  opened,  and  he  perceived  the  fatal  silken  curtain  of 
which  the  geni  had  spoken.  He  hastily  drew  aside  the  cur- 
tain, and  saw  the  sea  upon  which  he  was  to  embark,  in  order 
to  reach  the  end  of  all  his  toils.  He  sprang  hastily  forward, 
but  at  the  same  instant  the  fortieth  gaie  which  he  had  forgot- 
ten to  shut,  fell  back  upon  its  hinges  with  a  dreadful  noise,  at 
which  Caucasus  trembled  to  its  foundation. 

All  the  doors  through  which  he  had  passed,  and  all  thoso 
of  the  dungeons  in  the  bowels  of  the  earth  were  overturned 
and  broken,  with  a  noise  which  seemed  to  shake  the  arch  of 
heaven.  Legions  of  spirits,  in  the  most  hideous  forms,  issued 
forth  and  attacked  Habib.  The  most  frightful  signs,  the  most 
terrifying  alarms,  accompanied  their  threats  and  gestures. 

Habib  turned  to  oppose  them.  Had  he  been  susceptible  of 
fear,  he  must  have  been  terrified.  But  the  extraordinary 
nature  of  the  danger  rendered  him  firm  and  cool.  He  recol- 
lected the  formidable  word,  and,  displaying  at  the  same  time 
.he  sword  of  Solomon,  pronounced  it  with  a  firm  voice.  The 
affrighted  crowd  instantly  retired  with  precipitation ;  the  door 
which  opened  to  the  sea  was  violently  shut,  but  all  the  male- 
volent genii  did  not  return  into  their  dark  abodes. 

Part  of  them  plunged  into  the  sea.  Its  waters  were  raised 
with  fury  from  the  deep  abyss ;  the  billows  rose  mountain 
high  in  the  air ;  vast  masses  of  vapor  were  spread  through  the 
sky.  The  day  disappeared,  the  sun  was  darkened ;  thunders 
began  to  roar ;  the  accumulating  clouds  struggled  against  the 
raging  winds,  and  the  billows  of  the  sea  dasLing  against  one 
another,  exhibited  a  black  and  liquid  surface,  which  the  fiashen 
f  f  the  lightning  seemed  to  tinge  with  blood. 

The  tempest  burst  from  all  quarters.  The  imprisoned  winds 
And  the  thunder  broke  through  the  passages  that  were  opened 
to  them.  The  sea  fled  before  them  to  its  deep  abysses.  Th'« 


156  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

dashing  of  the  waves,  and  the  blustering  of  the  winds,  shook 
thft  very  foundation  of  the  rocks ;  while  the  biaze  of  the  light- 
ning, and  the  doubling  peals  of  the  thunder,  seemed  to  threaten 
this  part  of  the  globe  with  the  return  of  the  primitive  confu- 
sion of  chaos. 

This  tumult  and  confusion  of  the  elements  was  not  wholly 
natural.  D  Haboul,  the  guardian  of  the  Prophet's  armor  and 
treasure,  had,  at  the  moment  that  the  rebel  genii  made  their 
escape,  left  his  usual  post  at  the  head  of  the  genii  under  hia 
command ;  and  the  earth,  the  sea,  and  the  air,  were  become 
eat'h  the  theatre  of  a  furious  and  desperate  combat. 

Habib,  struck  with  the  disorder  which  he  beheld  around 
him,  could  impute  the  cause  to  nothing  but  his  own  impru- 
dence. When  he  had  opened  the  fatal  curtain,  both  heaven 
and  earth  appeared  with  a  smiling  aspect,  and  the  sea  was 
calm.  He  prostrated  himself  with  his  face  to  the  ground,  and 
*ried: — 

"  Where  is  he  who  thinks  himself  wise  ?  Let  him  look 
upon  me  and  tremble  at  his  presumption.  Where  is  he  who 
always  acts  prudently  ?  Let  him  come  hither  and  confound 
\ne.  My  eyes  have  had  a  glimpse  of  happiness,  but  it  has 
vanished  from  my  view.  I  had  the  key  of  my  fate,  but  it  has 
dropped  from  my  hands.  Dorathil-goase !  your  lover  loves 
you  with  a  passion,  which  deprives  him  of  reason.  He  is 
unworthy  of  you.  In  my  present  situation  how  shall  I  invoke 
lo  my  aid  the  powers  of  the  earth  ?  If  I  should  seek  to  move 
Heaven,  I  hear  a  voice  crying  from  the  depth  of  my  soul : 
Give  an  account  of  the  benefits  which  heaven  has  bestowed.  The 
Arabians  of  our  tribe  have  betrayed  me !  but  can  I  reproach 
them  when  I  have  betrayed  myself?  Salamis,  II  Haboul, 
Amirala,  you  have  sown  on  an  unprofitable  soil.  How  shal] 
you  reap  the  fruit  ?  I  shall  weep  like  the  timid  soul !  Con- 
fusion must  cover  my  eyes  when  I  have  laid  aside  the  band 
age  of  pride.  O  great  Prophet !  a  criminal  dares  not  lift  up 
tiis  voice  to  heaven.  But  thou  didst  vouchsafe  thy  favor  in  a 
signal  manner  if  Habib  when  he  merited  nothing  at  thy  hand 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  457 

but  now,  when  he  confesses  his  faults,  look  down  in  mercy  and 
forgive  him." 

Habib  having  uttered  his  prayer,  arose  and  looked  around 
on  the  scsne  where  he  now  found  himself.  He  was  on  tha 
height  of  a  ledge  of  rocks,  the  foot  of  which  was  violently 
lashed  by  the  breaking  waves  of  the  ocean.  The  mountain  was 
precipitous  and  insulated  all  around,  and  seemed  in  a  manner 
detached  from  the  rest  of  the  world.  He  proceeded  for  a  mile, 
by  scrambling  and  leaping  from  rock  to  rock ;  the  light  of  the 
sun  was  intercepted  by  thick  clouds :  the  flashes  of  lightning, 
which  bioke  from  these,  gave  all  surrounding  objects  a  fiery 
and  cupreous  glare ;  an  infectious  saline  vapor  composed  the 
atmosphere  in  which  he  breathed.  The  day  which  illumi- 
nated these  terrifying  appearances  was  formed  to  augment  the 
horror  of  the  scene.  Habib  stood  and  contemplated  for  some 
time  the  disorder  which  the  warring  elements  presented  be- 
fore him.  Then  looking  on  his  scimetar,  he  saw  the  talis- 
manic  characters  shine  with  extraordinary  lustre.  II  Haboul 
had  formerly  taught  him  that  Providence  never  performed  a 
miracle  unless  for  some  very  important  cause.  The  new  glare 
">f  the  talisman,  he  hence  concluded,  must  be  intended  to  prompt 
^im  who  bore  it  to  call  its  virtues  into  exertion,  in  order  to 
Mill  the  raging  elements.  He,  therefore,  drew  the  mysterious 
blade,  and  striking  the  air  thrice,  cried,  "  Powers  of  fire,  of 
earth,  of  air,  of  the  waters  !  I  command  you  to  return  to  your 
<ronted  order,  otherwise  I  will  reduce  you  to  dull  inaction." 

That  instant  a  blaze  of  light  was  emitted  from  the  scimetar% 
Before  which  all  other  lightning  was  pale  !  a  confused  noise? 
was  heard  like  that  of  hills  of  sand  sinking  down  one  upon 
another.  The  sea  grew  calm.  The  tempest  ceased.  Gentle 
breezes  of  the  west  wind  succeeded  to  the  boisterous  blasts 
from  the  north ;  and  the  bright  star  of  day  gilded  with  his 
rays  the  stupendous  rock  on  whose  summit  the  hero  stood. 

At  so  astonishing  a  change  upon  the  face  of  nature,  the 
sultan  could  not  avoid  feeling  a  degree  of  terror  with  his  joy, 
*  What  power,"  cried  he,  "  has  deigned  to  employ  my  weak 

39 


458  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

bauds,  guilty  as  I  am,  thus  to  still  the  rage  of  nature  ?  How 
are  the  elements  subject  to  my  voice  ?  Creator  of  the  world ! 
thou  hast  not  turned  away  thy  face  from  me.  Great  Prophet ! 
Habib  is  still  in  thine  eyes  a  son  of  the  tribe  of  Bem-Hilac." 

As  he  ceased  speaking,  with  his  face  prostrate  to  the  earth 
he  heard  a  motion  near  his  side,  which  prompted  him  to  raise 
fai?  head ;  and  II  Haboul  stood  before  him. 

"  O  my  protector !  my  master !  you,  no  doubt,  are  the  author 
tf  the  miracles  which  I  have  witnessed."  "  No,  my  dear 
Habib,"  replied  the  geni,  "  they  are  wrought  by  the  influence 
^f  the  great  Solomon,  whose  instrument  you  have  been.  You 
know  not  what  disorders  your  negligence  and  forgetfulness  of 
my  counsels  have  produced.  The  mischief  you  have  done 
could  hardly  have  been  repaired,  without  your  exertions. 

"  Instead  of  shutting  the  fortieth  door  after  you,  you  hurried 
•o  the  sea-shore.  The  gates  of  the  dungeons  which  confined 
the  rebel  spirits,  instantly  burst  open,  and  xhe  prisoners  swarm' 
ed  forth.  You  yourself  would  have  beea  the  first  victim  of 
their  rage,  had  you  not  employed  the  talisman  to  whose  name 
they  were  once  subject.  Terrified  at  sight  of  it,  they  ascended 
into  the  air,  and  raised  the  storm  which  you  have  witnessed. 

"  I  followed  them  at  the  head  of  the  spirits  under  my  com- 
mand. We  began  a  violent  combat,  the  effects  of  which  you 
have  also  witnessed,  without  understanding  them.  You  then 
employed  the  only  means  which  remained  in  your  power. 
Their  success  was  certain  in  the  hands  of  a  faithful  Mussul* 
man.  The  arms  instantly  dropped  from  the  hands  of  the 
rebel  genii.  They  were  seized  with  a  sudden  stupor,  and 
sunk  down  like  so  many  lumps  of  dead  earth.  My  warriors 
fettered  them,  and  conveyed  them  back  to  their  dungeons. 
But  had  it  not  been  for  your  aid,  the  contest  had  not  yet  been 
terminated. 

"  I  will  not  reproach  you  for  an  act  of  imprudence  which 
fiets  your  success  at  a  distance,  and  subjects  you  to  unspeak- 
able toils  before  you  can  accomplish  it.  It  is  not  so  much 
your  fault  as  love's,  and  your  passion  is  owing  to  the  influence 
tf  your  star. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  i&9 

"Recollect  the  knowledge  you  acquired  when  you  surveyed 
ihe  treasures  of  the  great  Solomon  ;  you  will  find  every  wliere, 
and  in  yourself,  arms  to  insure  the  success  of  the  true  knight 
He  knows  that  these  are  more  at  his  command  in  adversity, 
than  in  happier  situations. 

"  The  advices  I  now  give  you,  are  the  last  you  shaJl  receive 
from  me.  In  the  career  upon  which  you  are  entered,  success 
would  be  dishonorable,  if  obtained  by  trivial  means.  Only 
from  Heaven  can  one  receive  at  all  times  without  shame ;  and 
to  Heaven  may  one  always  confidently  apply,  when  one's  views 
are  wise  and  honorable,  and  when  insolent  triumph  is  not  the 
object  sought.  Adieu,  dear  Habib,  I  leave  you  exposed  to 
wants  of  all  sorts,  and  ready  to  be  hurried  into  new  adven- 
tures ;  but  I  believe  your  courage  equal  to  all." 

D  Haboul  left  Habib  on  a  rock.  The  sea  had  receded,  and 
its  waves  no  longer  lashed  the  foot  of  the  rock  upon  which  he 
stood.  He  might  descend  from  one  rock  to  another ;  but  how 
should  he  shelter  himself  through  the  night  ?  or  where  find 
relief  from  the  cravings  of  thirst  and  hunger  ?  This  was  the 
hero's  situation  when  his  guardian  geni  disappeared. 

A  soul  of  less  firmness  and  elevation  than  his  would  here 
have  been  abandoned  to  anxiety  and  despair.  But  the  scimetar 
of  Solomon  still  hung  by  his  side,  a  terror  to  the  enemies  of 
the  Most  High.  He  had  no  enemies  to  dread  but  himself. 
"  My  error,"  said  he,  "  had  laid  me  low,  but  the  hand  of  God 
raises  me  up  again.  Caucasus,  boast  of  thy  stupendous  bulk, 
or  of  the  hardness  of  the  mass  of  which  thou  art  composed , 
God  willed  it,  and  I  have  penetrated  through  thy  bowels 
Earth,  thou  appearest  behind  me  as  a  lonely  wall ;  thou  seen* 
est  to  be  boundless,  and  offerest  only  a  dark  abyss  of  water* 
to  my  view.  But  hope  emerges  above  thy  waters,  and  shows 
herself  through  the  vapors  which  cover  thee." 

And,  indeed,  Habib  at  this  time  saw  land  without  suspect- 
ing so  much  ;  it  was  the  nearest  point  of  the  White  Isle  which 
formed  a  part  of  the  dominions  of  Dorathil-goase.  Nighty 
however,  came  on;  and  to  avoid  suffering  from  its  cold,  hi 


t£0  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

laid  down  between  three  rocks,  which  served  tc  elieltei  hot 
from  the  bleak  winds. 

At  day-break,  the  young  Mussulman  performed  his  ablu- 
tions and  prayers.  He  ran  over  ths  adjoining  land,  in  search 
of  some  resources  for  his  subsistence.  The  caverns  were  full 
of  shell-fish,  and  among  them  were  some  broken  remains  of 
roots  and  herbs  brought  hither  by  the  billows.  He  with  these 
satisfied  his  present  wants,  waiting  till  destiny  should  call  him 
to  act  in  a  more  important  scene. 

One  morning,  when  Habib  leaned  on  the  rock  nearest  the 
lea,  and  looked  out  to  see  if  any  vessels  were  approaching, 
he  happened  to  fall  into  a  light  slumber,  upon  which  three 
daughters  of  the  sea  suddenly  raised  their  heads  above  the 
water. 

"  He  sleeps,  sister,"  said  one  of  the  nymphs  to  the  other 
two,  "  let  us  approach  and  strive  to  learn  who  he  is.  You 
will  enjoy  a  pleasure  in  seeing  him ;  he  is  beautiful  a*s  the 
rising  day.  Yesterday,  I  saw  him  stooping  over  the  water  to 
wash ;  his  cheeks  communicated  a  lovely  color  to  the  waters : 
you  would  have  said  that  the  bottom  of  the  sea  was  bespread 
with  roses.  But  that  we  may  have  a  better  view  of  him,  let 
us  beware  of  making  a  noise,  to  awake  him.  Give  me  your 
hand ;  and  let  us  turn  round,  till  he  be  sound  asleep." 

When  the  daughters  of  the  sea  saw  that  their  enchantments 
had  taken  effect,  they  came  out  of  the  water.  On  their  should 
ers  they  displayed  their  fair  hair  bound  up  in  tresses,  waving 
gracefully  in  the  breeze.  Robes  of  stuff,  formed  of  sea-plants, 
*ud  fine  as  gauze,  hung  down  from  their  shoulders,  upon  their 
bins ;  pearled  buskins  adorned  their  legs,  on  their  arms  were 
coral  bracelets ;  their  whole  appearance  was  in  the  highest 
degree  lovely  and  captivating.  They  all  three  surveyed  their 
own  charms  in  the  water,  and  being  pleased  with  their  dress 
and  appearance,  approached  and  stood  around  the  knight. 
*  What  a  lovely  young  man ! "  said  the  eldest  of  the  three , 
4  Can  he  be  a  knight !  "  "  He  is  undoubtedly  so,"  e aid  the 
youngest  "  View  his  sabre,  but  touch  it  not ;  for  I  put  mj 
hand  to  the  bilt,  ai  I  it  burnt  me." 


EN  TERTAINMENTS.  49} 

*  HE  aide,"  said  /he  eldest  to  her  youngest  sister,  <l  we  must 
know  who  he  is,  and  whence  he  cornea.  He  may  have  been 
brought  here  in  a  storm.  However,  nothing  about  him  be- 
speaks his  having  been  shipwrecked.  Bring  me  one  of  these 
large  shells  on  the  beach,  and  fill  it  with  water." 

Ilzaide  obeyed.  The  shell  was  brought.  The  eldest  of  the 
daughters  of  the  sea  then  gently  pulled  one  of  Habib's  hairs, 
u  Here  is  a  hair,"  said  she,  "  which  shall  tell  us  all  the  secrets 
Df  the  head  on  which  it  grew."  She  then  threw  it  into  the 
water  in  the  shell,  and  walked  around  the  shell  with  a  circular 
movement.  "  Shake  the  water  well,"  said  she  to  her  sisters, 
*  it  will  become  turbid,  and  so  much  the  better  shall  I  see." 
¥  Look  there,  sister,"  said  Ilzaide,  "  I  believe  the  hair  is  melted. 
The  water  is  now  covered  like  the  firmament ;  the  star  appears 
in  it,  and  the  bottom  of  the  shell  is  no  more  to  be  seen."  "  So 
much  the  better,"  returned  the  eldest ;  "  after  night,  com«s  the 
day.  See,  here  is  a  country  covered  with  wood,  under  the 
shade  of  which  are  flocks  feeding.  Stoop  down,  and  you  will 
Bee  the  whole  scene.  There  are  tents;  —  he  was  born  in 
Arabia." 

"  In  Arabia,  sisters  ? "  said  that  one  of  the  three  who  had 
not  yet  spoken.  "  Thence  does  our  queen,  Dorathil-goase,  ex- 
pect her  deliverer.  Happy  should  we  be  to  have  the  hero 
here !  Soon  would  he  deliver  us  from  Raoachik,  and  all  his 
race ;  but  the  water  says  nothing  of  him.  Shake  it  again,  that 
we  may  kno\^  whence  he  has  come." 

u  Ah !  sister,"  said  Ilzaide,  "  it  becomes  black,  black  ! :* 
"  Good ! "  returned  the  eldest,  "  the  truth  will  come  out  so 
much  the  clearer.  Shake  it  with  a  brisker  motion."  "  Sister," 
gaid  the  second,  "  see,  it  grows  white.  Oh !  what  a  sad  sight  j. 
exhibits ! "  "  These  are  mountains,  sands,  and  deserts,"  added 
the  eldest.  "  He  has  travelled  over  all  these  alone,  for  he  ap 
pears  by  himself,  and  without  any  companion.  He  must  b« 
Itrong  and  valiant,  then.  Shake,  shake  the  water  again,  foi 
the  way  I  see  him  take  could  not  bring  him  hither.  Oh , 
heavens,"  2ned  she,  "  I  see  the  bowels  of  the  earth  Enough 
39* 


162  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

my  sisters.  This  water  cannot  tell  us  the  secrets  tf  Lia  heart 
but  I  know  more  natural  means  by  which  we  may  come  to  thf 
knowledge  of  them.  It  is  a  matter  of  the  greatest  concern  to  us, 
you  know,  to  be  acquainted  with  them.  We  are  informed  that  wft 
are  to  be  delivered  from  our  evils,  and  from  our  tyrants,  by  a  man 
who  is  a  perfect  lover,  and  yet  not  in  love  with  any  of  us."  "  Cer- 
tainly, a  knight,  be  he  who  he  may,"  replied  Ilzaide,  smartly, 
"  cannot  be  our  lover  without  having  ever  seen  us."  "  But 
when  he  opens  his  eyes,"  replied  the  eldest,  "  he  cannot  but 
§ee  us.  Take  you  care,  sister,  not  to  meet  his  eyes  with  yours. 
There  is  a  magic  in  them  of  greater  power  than  what  we  have 
in  ours,  and  were  he  to  fall  in  love  with  you,  we  should  be  un- 
done, and  our  hopes  disappointed."  "  He  will  fall  in  love  with 
you,  sister,  rather  than  with  me,"  replied  Ilzaide.  "  May  Sol- 
omon keep  him  from  falling  in  love  with  any  of  us,"  added  the 
eldest ;  "  yet  there  seems  to  be  a  great  danger  of  it.  How- 
ever, as  we  must  gain  his  good  graces  that  we  may  have  a  right 
to  his  services,  let  us  think  what  we  may  do  for  this  purpose. 

"  In  the  first  place,  I  see  that  he  is  in  want  of  every  con- 
venience. He  has  found  nothing  for  sustenance  but  some  ma- 
rine plants  and  shell-fish,  which  he  has  eaten  raw.  Let  us  pre- 
pare for  him  against  he  awakes  such  a  repast  as  these  places 
can  afford.  You,  Ilzaide,  are  nimbler  than  the  mountain-goat ; 
go,  bring  some  of  its  milk  in  a  shell,  which  you  may  cover, 
above  and  below,  with  aromatic  herbs.  In  the  cavities  of  the 
mountain  you  will  find  fruits  and  flowers.  Choose  what  ap- 
pears the  most  to  the  sight,  taste  and  smell.  My  sister  and  I 
will  take  care  for  the  rest,  and  we  shall  thus  offer  as  handsome 
a  collation  as  can  be  prepared  in  this  desert  place." 

Hardly  had  Ilzaide  gone  to  perform  her  task  when  the  eldest 
iister  explained  her  intention  to  the  second.  "  I  know  of 
branches  of  coral,"  said  she,  "  at  the  bottom  of  the  sea,  two  of 
which  would  load  a  camel.  Let  us  go  find  some  of  them.  We 
will  place  four  of  them  in  a  square ;  cover  it  with  stuff  like 
what  we  wear ;  thus  form  a  pavilion ;  then  gather  moss  and 
irj  >t  f or  a  sofa ;  form  a  table  of  stones,  and  cover  it  with  a 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  6£ 

tissue  wmch  has  never  been  dyed.  We  will  then  provide  some 
of  tht>  best  fish  the  sea  affords  ;  dry  and  roast  them  in  the  sun 
The  bird's  eggs  which  I  shall  bring,  and  the  fruits  and  milk 
with  which  our  sister  will  furnish  us,  will  complete  the  feast. 
When  a  geni  is  out  of  his  element,  his  power  is  limited.  Here, 
industry  must  supply  the  defect  of  power.  Order  and  taste 
must  make  amends  for  the  want  of  variety.  Necessity  will 
confer  a  value  upon  anything.  Gratitude  will  ascribe  AVRTI  to 
the  slightest  favor  the  highest  consequence." 

Hzaide  returned.  The  pavilion  was  set  up,  and  ornamented. 
The  table  was  covered.  All  that  now  remained  was  to  suspend 
the  magic  influence  by  which  Habib's  sleep  was  prolonged. 
But  it  was  requisite  that  he  should  awake  on  the  sofa,  before 
which  the  table  stood,  and  that  the  three  sisters  should  be  seat- 
ed opposite  to  him. 

a  Let  us  now  see,  sisters,"  said  the  eldest,  "  whether  this  be 
the  Arabian  Knight  who  is  the  lover  of  Dorathil-goase.  I  will 
try  an  expedient  to  know,  the  success  of  which  cannot  fail. 
Raise  up  your  hands,  and  move  them  while  I  speak :  By  the 
great  prophet  Solomon,  knight*  1  awaken  you  in  the  name  of 
Dorathil-goase" 

"  Dorathil-goase  ! "  cried  Habib,  awaking  and  springing  up 
He  then  looked  about  him,  and  remained  stupefied  and  con- 
founded ;  three  beauties,  half  naked,  a  table  plentifully  covered 
with  inviting  food,  fruits,  flowers  ;  a  pavilion,  where  all  was 
coral  and  purple,  and  all  these  conjured  up  by  the  name  of 
Dorathil-goase.  "  Dorathil-goase ! "  cried  he  again,  sitting 
down  and  looking  about  him,  "  where  is  my  dear  Dorathil- 
goase?" 

"She  is  not  here,  sir  knight,"  replied  the  eldest  of  the  three 
listers  ;  "but  you  are  within  sight  of  one  of  the  isles  of  which 
me  rebel  genii  have  deprived  her.  You  may  see  it  over  thia 
%rm  of-  the  sea  —  yonder  bluish  vapor,  which  terminates  yout 
horizon." 

*  Are  you  attendants  of  hers  ?  Whither  am  I  transited  ? ' 
laid  the  young  sultan,  greatly  moved.  "  In  our  hearfc,"  re 


t€4  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

plied  the  eldest  of  the  daughters  of  the  sea ;  "  we  are  stiil  hei 
subjects,  although  subjected,  in  spite  of  us,  to  the  law  of  th« 
rebellious  Abarikaff,  and  to  the  immediate  dominion  of  the 
monstrous  Racachik." 

"  Where  are  they  ?  "  interrupted  Habib ;  "  I  will  drive  them 
from  the  face  of  the  earth."  "  Sir,"  answered  the  eldest  of  the 
daughters  of  the  sea,  "  they  are  at  present  both  out  of  your 
reach.  Abarikaff  is  upon  the  Black  Isle;  and  you  have  six 
seas  to  cross  before  you  can  meet  with  him.  Racachik  is  upon 
the  White  Isle,  which  you  see  there."  "  I  will  attack  him  in- 
stantly," said  Habib.  "  The  thing  is  possible,  but  you  must 
employ  new  expedients."  "  These  shall  be  easily  found  out,* 
said  the  hero.  "  I  am  here  amidst  an  enchanted  scene,  for 
which  I  am  undoubtedly  indebted  to  the  goodness  of  II  Haboul 
or  of  Dorathil-goase ;  but  where  am  I  ?  "  "  On  the  same  rock 
on  which  you  fell  asleep  yesterday ;  we  have  endeavored  to 
make  it  more  commodious  to  you."  u  I  thank  you,"  said  Ha- 
bib ;  "  your  power  seems  to  be  founded  upon  charms  of  more 
than  on 3  sort.  But  if  you  are  disposed  to  continue  your  good- 
ness to  me,  cannot  you,  by  a  very  small  exertion  of  magical 
power,  transform  this  pavilion  into  a  bark,  which  may  instantly 
carry  me  to  the  isle,  in  which  the  enemy  of  queen  Dorathil- 
goase  commands  ?  " 

"  Sir  knight,"  replied  the  eldest  of  the  daughters  of  the  sea, 
"  although  we  be  three  sisters,  daughters  of  genii,  and  genii  our- 
selves, yet  here  are  neither  charms  nor  enchantments.  This  pa- 
vilion, and  this  frugal  meal  are  prepared  by  natural  means.  The 
fatigues  you  have  undergone  since  your  departure  from  Arabia, 
must  have  exhausted  your  strength  ;  eat  freely  and  cheerfuily 
of  these  dishes  ;  they  were  dressed  for  you  by  friendly  hands. 
You  will  not  suspect  the  sincerity  of  our  inclination  to  serve  you, 
when  you  understand,  that  by  avenging  our  queen  of  the  tyrant 
Racachik,  you  will  do  still  more  for  us  than  if  you  should 
restore  us  to  peace  and  rest.  But  I  can  say  no  more,  if  you 
•refuse  to  taste  the  food  we  offer." 

Habib  suffered  himself  to  be  prevailed  upon,  and  the  rlaugh 


ENTERTAINMENTS  461 

ter  of  the  sew  continued  her  narrative  in  the  following  word* 
"  Since  Abarikaif  has  made  good  his  attempt  by  kindling  r& 
bellion  through  all  the  provinces  of  Dorathil-goase's  dominiona 
he  committed  the  government  of  th^  White  Isle,  the  frontiei 
of  his  territories,  to  Racachik,  the  most  cruel  and  infamous  of 
the  genii  under  his  command. 

"  This  monster,  before  he  joined  the  standard  of  Abarikaff 
had  ranged  through  the  ocean,  under  the  form  of  an  enoimou « 
abark.  When  he  observed  a  vessel  under  sail,  he  pursued  ii 
and  by  his  poisonous  eye  fascinated  the  sailoK  and  passenger* 
Hapless  were  they  who  chanced  to  look  on  him !  Their  head' 
became  giddy,  they  dropped  into  the  sea ;  the  monster  draggeV 
them  under  water,  and  made  them  his  prey.  Nor  was  his  hun 
ger  satiable ;  when  strangers  were  not  to  be  found,  he  glutted 
his  voracious  maw  with  the  blood  of  the  queen's  subjects.  Th* 
tyrant  Abarikaff  authorized  him  to  do  so;  for  both  had  made  s 
vow  to  exterminate  the  children  of  Adam. 

"  As  for  ourselves,  he  cannot,  it  is  true,  deprive  us  of  life 
but  we  are  subject  to  torments  more  cruel  than  death  itseli 
He  chooses  from  amongst  us  his  wives  and  his  slaves.  Thesi 
he  changes  every  moon.  My  sister  and  myself,  at  next  new 
moon,  must  enter  into  a  great  salt-water  pond,  which  serves  as 
Lis  harem.  The  fatal  time  will  arrive  in  three  days !  If  you 
ghall  attack  the  monster,  be  assured  of  our  earnest  prayers  for 
your  success ;  yet  can  we  not  hide  from  you  the  dangers  you 
must  encounter. 

"  For  his  convenience  while  he  is  on  land,  the  monster  has 
in  part  assumed  a  human  form,  reserving,  however,  his  shark's 
head,  armed  with  a  triple  row  of  teeth,  because  he  found  that 
90  well  suited  to  his  sanguinary  nature.  His  gigantic  body  is 
covered  with  enchanted  scales,  which  are  his  armor.  The 
shell  of  a  huge  tortoise  forms  his  shield ;  and  he  wears  on  his 
head  an  enormous  twisted  shell,  by  way  of  helmet.  His  lance 
is  the  horn  of  a  sword  fish,  six  cubits  in  length.  He  mounts 
on  the  back  of  a  sea-horse,  and  thus  rushes  on  to  the  combat ; 
the  steed  mingling  his  horrible  cries  with  those  of  his  rider. 


ff)6  ARABIAN    NIGLITS* 

*'  The  rib  of  a  whale,  which  he  has  rendered  harder  an<$ 
sharper  than  steel,  serves  him  for  a  scimetar.  His  arms  ear- 
not  be  resisted  by  human  force ;  for  his  weapons  are  enchant* 
«d."  "  How,  madam ! "  interrupted  Habib,  with  vivacity, "  can 
E  not  be  transported  in  less  than  three  days  to  the  isle  that  is 
ravaged  by  Racachik?  Find  me  a  conveyance  to  the  spot, 
and  I  swear  by  the  holy  Prophet  that  I  shall  not  rest  till  i 
have  executed  the  vengeance  of  heaven  on  this  nicked  eneiny 
of  humanity ! " 

While  Habib  uttered  this  oath,  his  eye  displayed  somewhat 
more  than  human,  and  his  look  was  such  as  might  have  in- 
spired a  whole  army  with  courage.  He  made  a  few  steps 
within  the  pavilion,  and  his  graceful  air  and  majestic  carriage 
still  heightened  the  noble  expression  of  his  countenance. 

Ilzaide  concealed  herself  behind  her  eldest  sister.  "  There," 
said  she  in  a  whisper,  "  there  is  a  hero !  how  charming  he  is ! 
I  never  saw  his  like  !  Oh,  sister,  how  I  tremble  lest  I  should 
love  him !  "  "I  doubt,"  answered  the  other,  "  it  is  no  longer 
time  to  fear  it" 

"  Brave  knight,"  continued  she,  addressing  Habib,  "  we  are 
as  anxious  as  yourself  to  procure  you  the  means  of  delivering 
us  from  the  oppression  of  our  tyrant.  In  the  defiles  of  this 
mountain  there  is  a  marsh,  which  produces  reeds  of  an  ex- 
traordinary strength  and  size.  We  will  form  a  raft  of  those 
materials,  sufficient  to  bear  you  through  the  calm  sea  to  the 
White  Island,  to  which  place  we  ourselves  will  conduct  you 
In  the  mean  time,  finish  your  repast,  and  enjoy  repose  till  the 
morning."  "  Come,  sister,"  said  she  to  Ilzaide,  "  let  us  set  abou* 
making  the  raft ! "  "I  will  attend  you,"  resumed  Habib ;  "  J 
am  surely  able  enough  to  participate  in  your  labors." 

tf  My  sisters  and  I  are  sufficient,"  answered  the  eldest.  a  W& 
must  pass  for  a  great  way  under  water,  to  a  place  where  ii 
would  be  impossible  for  you  to  follow  us.  We  will  soon 
return  ;  for  our  zeal  and  impatience  for  the  accomplishment 
ftf  your  vow  are  not  less  than  your  own ;  and  to-morrow,  bj 
iay-break,  we  shall  be  ready  to  set  out  for  the  White  Isle* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  46. 

Hie  three  sisters  took  their  leave  of  him,  and,  passing  witb 
vast  agility  over  the  rocks,  came  to  a  small  eminence  on  the 
orink  of  the  sea.  There,  while  they  bound  up  their  tresses 
and  prepared  to  plunge  into  the  water,  the  younger  siste* 
asked  her  companions,  "  how  can  we  leave  him  alone !  he  will 
soon  weary  in  such  solitude."  "  I  dare  say,"  sister,  answered 
the  eldest,  "  you  would  willingly  keep  him  company,  and  while 
we  prepared  the  raft,  you  would  take  care  to  render  our  labors 
vain.  My  dear  sister !  you  are  no  stranger  to  the  dangers  of 
the  ocean ;  but  you  are  not  yet  acquainted  with  all  its  shoals 
and  quicksands !  let  us  go  where  our  duty  calls  us."  They 
all  threw  themselves  into  the  sea,  and  disappeared. 

In  the  mean  time  Habib,  having  made  au  ^nd  of  his  repast, 
and  seeing  night  approach,  performed  his  ablution,  and  said 
his  prayer ;  after  which  he  enjoyed  an  easy  sleep,  waiting  the 
return  of  the  daughters  of  the  sea. 

When  the  first  rays  of  the  sun  struck  his  eyelids,  Habib 
awaked ;  he  looked  anxiously  toward  the  White  Isle,  and  with 
his  eye  measured  the  distance.  He  suddenly  perceived  a  re- 
markable commotion  in  the  water,  though  the  sea  was  scarcely 
ruffled  by  the  gentle  breeze.  He  observed  an  object  advance 
with  rapidity  towards  the  place  where  he  stood,  and  saw  seve- 
ral heads  above  the  water,  who  called  to  him,  "  Come,  brave 
knight,  come  on  board  this  raft !  "  He  knew  the  voices  of  the 
three  sisters,  and  sprang  upon  the  slender  craft,  which,  how 
ever,  bore  him  on  the  surface  of  the  waves. 

Eight  dolphins  were  yoked  to  the  raft.  The  elder  sister, 
with  half  of  her  body  above  water,  supported  the  stern  with 
Doth  her  hands,  and  served  as  a  rudder  to  the  vessel.  The 
two  younger  sisters  swam  one  on  each  side,  keeping  it  in 
equilibrium  with  one  hand.  Habib,  having  his  mind  full  of 
ihe  enterprise  in  which  he  was  engaged,  was  seated  on  the 
raft. 

They  soon  discovered  the  shore  of  the  White  Isle  and  th« 
palace  of  the  tyrant,  which  was  built  of  shells  and  corals,  on  a 
promontory  projecting  into  the  sea.  When  the  sentinals  per- 


466  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

ceived  th3  warrior  approaching  they  gave  the  alarm,  and  at> 
nounced  the  news  to  Racachik.  The  monster  regarded  him 
as  a  fresh  prey  ready  to  fall  into  his  hands. 

"Let  him  come  on,"  said  he;  "ask  him  what  he  wants? 
he  shall  soon  know  to  his  cost,  that  no  stranger  can  set  foot  on 
this  isle  till  he  has  tried  my  strength  and  courage ;  but  I  mus: 
arm  myself  to  give  him  a  suitable  reception." 

In  the  mean  time  the  raft  approached  the  land,  and  Habib 
leaped  ashore.  One  of  the  sentinels,  who  was  an  amphibious 
monster,  came  up  to  interrogate  him,  as  Racachik  had  com- 
manded. "  Go,  tell  thy  master,"  said  Habib,  "  that  I  am  come 
to  challenge  him  to  single  combat."  "  You  are  not  armed,* 
said  the  monster,  "  nor  have  you  a  horse."  "  Know,"  said  the 
young  sultan,  "  that  my  turban  is  my  casque,  and  my  scimetar 
is  instead  of  a  helmet  and  a  buckler.  I  need  no  horse ;  let 
thy  master  come  on !  I  here  defy  him  and  all  his  powers." 

No  sooner  was  this  message  delivered  than  the  furious  lla- 
cachik,  clad  in  his  strong  mail  of  shells,  and  mounted  on  a 
hideous  sea-horse,  whose  clumsy  gallop  raised  about  him  a 
cloud  of  dust,  advanced  towards  the  shore  to  attack  the  hero. 
"  Despicable  son  of  Adam !  vile  slave  of  Mohammed !  thou 
art  proud  forsooth  that  thou  dost  not  creep  on  the  earth  like 
other  reptiles,  but  canst  raise  thy  head  three  cubits  above  the 
clay  from  which  thou  art  sprung.  Darest  thou  insult  the  geni 
Racachik !  take  then  the  reward  of  thy  temerity."  While  he 
pronounced  these  words,  he  pushed  on  his  horse  against  Habib, 
and  aimed  a  thrust  at  him  with  his  enormous  lance.  The 
young  hero  opposed  his  scimetar,  and  the  lance  of  his  adver- 
sary was  shivered  in  pieces  before  the  stroke  reached  him. 
The  shock,  however,  stunned  the  arm  of  the  tyrant.  Hia 
horse  became  restive,  reared  on  his  hinder  legs,  and  fell  back- 
ward on  his  rider.  Racachik  saw  his  danger,  and  called  tc 
his  assistance  all  the  monsters  subjected  to  his  power.  In  a 
moment  the  ocean  was  agitated,  and  poured  forth  a  legion  of 
sea-lions,  hippopotami,  and  sea-calves ;  whabs  approached  tlu 
and  spouted  up  a  torrent  cf  water,  which  seemed  t* 


ENTERTAINMENTS  469 

form  a  barrier  betreen  th^  young  prince  and  his  enemy .  The 
shore  resounded  with  horrible  shrieks ;  for  the  whole,  army  of 
monsters  united  in  their  efforts  against  the  hero.  He  for  sorna 
time  kept  them  at  bay  with  his  scimetar ;  but  fearing  lest  ta 
should  be  overwhelmed  by  numbers,  he  waved  the  sacred  weapon 
thrice  in  the  air,  pronouncing  the  formidable  word  power.  The 
effect  was  instantaneous ;  the  monsters  that  had  escaped  the 
edge  of  the  sword,  constrained  by  a  superior  force,  plunged 
into  the  abyss  from  which  they  had  issued.  Racachik  again 
attempted  to  renew  the  fight ;  he  dared  to  encounter  the  weapon 
of  Solomon  with  his  monstrous  scimetar,  formed  from  the  rib 
of  a  whale ;  but  in  a  moment  it  was  broken  into  a  thousand 
pieces.  His  scaly  armor  and  enchanted  weapons  fell  into  dust ! 
"  Go,  wretch,"  cried  Habib,  "  go,  lament  thy  crimes  eternally 
in  the  caverns  of  Caucasus ! "  In  an  instant  the  shore  was 
cleared  of  every  vestige  of  the  monsters,  and  no  trace  of  Raca- 
ekik's  enchantments  remained. 

A  dismal  silence  succeeded  to  this  scene  of  horror  and 
tumult.  The  victorious  Habib,  grateful  for  his  destiny,  fell 
prostrate,  and  adored  the  being  to  whom  he  owed  his  success : 
*  Great  power,"  cried  he,  "  whom  none  can  resist,  thy  breath 
hath  dispersed  thine  enemies  like  chaff,  and  left  not  a  wreck 
behind !  The  fire  that  consumes  the  stubble  leaves  the  field 
covered  with  ashes ;  thy  foes  are  consumed,  but  no  mark  of 
them  remains.  The  slender  reed  in  the  hand  of  thy  servant, 
O  God,  is  more  powerful  than  the  sturdy  oak  in  the  grasp  of 
the  wicked.  I  am  like  an  arrow  in  the  bow  of  Mohammed 
and  of  Solomon.  I  have  b^en  sent  against  this  accursed  race, 
*ind  they  are  destroyed." 

Habib  arose  with  a  humble  sense  of  the  kindness  of  heaven, 
and  did  not  at  first  perceive  the  snare  that  was  spread  for  hib 
virtue.  The  whole  shore  was  covered  with  the  beautiful  daugh- 
ters of  the  sea,  adorned  with  crowns  and  garlands  of  marine 
flowers  They  had  assembled  to  express  their  grateful  thanks 
to  their  deliverer,  and  to  lay  at  his  feet  all  the  riches  of  thei* 
element.  The  harmonious  concert  of  their  voices,  and  theii 

40 


47C  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

graceful  address,  while  they  did  homage  to  the  hero,  might 
have  mored  the  most  savage  heart.  The  young  Ilzaide  and 
her  sisters  were  more  earnest  in  testifying  their  gratitude  than 
the  rest.  But  the  modesty  of  Habib  would  not  permit  him  to 
accept  the  praises  they  lavished  on  him.  "  I  have  done  nothing 
for  you,"  cried  he,  "  I  have  only  fulfilled  my  duty,  and  deserve 
not  such  acknowledgments.  Where  are  the  mosques?  Let 
us  go  to  the  temple,  where  we  may  give  thanks  to  God.  I  will 
lead  the  way.  If  there  be  any  faithful  subject  of  your  queen 
Dorathil-goase  in  this  place,  let  him  stand  forth,  that  I  may  put 
these,  your  gifts,  into  his  hand ;  for  I  can  only  accept  them  in 
her  name." 

A  geni,  in  his  natural  form,  immediately  presented  himself 
He  was  bent  under  a  load  of  years ;  his  wings  were  shattered, 
and  his  body  galled  by  the  chains  with  which  the  tyrant  had 
loaded  him.  His  name  was  Balazan. 

"  Sir,"  said  the  geni,  "  when  our  good  queen,  Camarilzaman, 
reigned,  we  had  three  mosques  in  this  island,  but  Racachik 
profaned  and  demolished  them.  That  heap  of  rubbish  you  see 
before  us  is  the  ruins  of  a  city  which  he  sacked,  and  of  which 
he  devoured  the  inhabitants.  The  isle  has  remained  without 
culture  and  without  commerce.  Illabousatrous  bestowed  on 
me  the  government  of  this  place ;  but  Racachik,  on  his  arrival, 
threw  me  into  a  dungeon,  from  which  I  have  been  liberated  by 
your  victory.  I  come  to  do  homage  to  the  messenger  of  Solo- 
mon, who  displays  on  this  coast  the  sword  of  the  prophet,  and 
to  offer  my  services  to  him  who  is  the  deliverer  of  the  children 
of  God,  and  the  avenger  of  Dorathil-goase."  "Well,"  an- 
swered *Habib ;  "  Balazan,  in  the  name  of  the  great  prophet, 
and  Dorathil-goase,  whose  knight  I  am,  I  restore  to  thee  all 
the  powers  with  which  thou  wert  formerly  invested.  Take 
these  treasures  which  lie  at  my  feet ;  cause  the  mosques  to  be 
rebuilt,  and  let  the  muczin  proclaim  from  the  lofty  turrets,  that 
all  the  quten's  faithful  subjects,  wherever  they  are  dispersed 
aaay  repair  thither  without  fear.  Govern  here  in  the  name  of 
Mohammad,  of  the  great  Solomon,  and  of  your  queen.  Ro 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  471 

tetablish  good  order,  and  procure  me  the  means  of  transporting 
myself  to  Medinaz-il-ballor." 

"  Noble  and  valiant  knight ! "  returned  Balazan,  "  I  accept 
with  confidence  the  authority  you  have  bestowed  on  me,  and  I 
submit  to  the  decrees  of  heaven.  But,  sir,  it  is  impossible  ta 
assist  you  in  going  where  your  destiny  calls  you.  This  isle  ia 
deprived  of  every  means  of  navigation ;  and  the  oath  through 
the  air  is  equally  impracticable ;  for  my  wings  are  disabled,  AS 
you  see ;  but  though  that  were  not  the  case,  Abarikaff  has  sc 
guarded  the  passes  that  all  my  efforts  to  break  his  enchant- 
ments would  prove  in  vain.  You  must  pursue  your  journey  from 
one  isle  to  another  by  the  same  means  you  employed  in  coming 
hither.  Avail  yourself  of  the  enthusiasm  with  which  youi 
person  and  valor  have  inspired  the  genii  of  the  sea ;  and  they 
may  perhaps  be  able  to  conduct  you  to  the  chief  seat  of  our 
enemy's  power.  The  event  will  depend  on  your  own  courage 
and  the  decrees  of  fate.  Already  has  the  terror  of  your  arms 
spread  to  the  Yellow  and  Red  Isles.  Mokilras,  the  tiger  of 
the  sea,  tyrannizes  over  both.  He  is  the  son  of  the  monster 
from  whom  you  have  just  delivered  us.  Informed  of  his 
father's  overthrow,  he  is  at  this  moment  using  every  precaution 
his  fear  can  suggest.  You  will  have  many  difficulties  to  en- 
counter ;  but  if  you  shall  prevail  against  him,  you  need  only 
erect  on  your  standard  the  skin  of  the  monster,  and  the  Red 
Island  will  at  once  submit." 

Habib  then  addressed  the  eldest  of  the  three  sisters :  "  If  I 
could  find  here  a  fisher's  boat,  or  a  small  skiff,"  said  he, %<  1 
would  embark  in  it  for  the  Yellow  Isle ;  but  as  I  may  be  una- 
ble to  obtain  such  assistance,  will  the  genii  of  your  element 
refuse  me  their  aid?"  "  If  fear  should  hinder  them  from  en- 
gaging in  the  noble  enterprise,"  answered  she,  "  if  they  are 
ignorant  of  the  degree  of  confidence  due  to  a  knight  of  your 
merit,  my  sisters  and  I  will  show  them  their  duty.  Our  dolphins 
can  at  least  conduct  the  raft  within  a  league  of  the  shore ;  but 
it  would  be  dangerous  for  them  to  proceed  farther,  on  account 
ef  tha  precautions  taken  by  Mokilras."  "  A  league  is  out  a 


472  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

ihort  way  to  swim,"  said  Habib,  "  in  the  eyes  .f  a  man  who  U 
determined  at  all  hazards  to  do  his  duty." 

"O  generous  knight,"  resumed  the  daughter  of  the   sea? 

*  who  could  refuse  to  follow  you,  were  it  only  to  have  the 
pleasure  of  seeing  you,  and  hearing  your  discourse  ?  but  are 
you  not  afraid  that  you  may  at  last  fall  a  prey  to  these  terrible 
gea-monsters ?  "     "I  know  no  fear,  madam,  but  that  of  failing 
to  second  the  decrees  of  destiny,  or  falling  short  of  my  duty  tc 
jour  queen ! "    "  Valiant  prince,  you  may  rely  on  our  fidelity ; 
my  sisters  and  I  will  reserve  to  ourselves  the  honor  of  serving 
/ou." 

A.t  that  moment  the  raft  was  afloat,  and  bore  them  through 
chj  waters  with  immense  velocity.  They  were  now  able  to 
distinguish  the  commotion  that  their  approach  had  occasioned 
in  the  Yellow  Isle.  It  was  at  the  distance  of  about  a  league, 
and  the  dolphins,  actuated  by  instinct,  suddenly  stopped,  and 
endeavored  to  break  the  harness  by  which  they  were  yoked  to 
the  raft.  One  of  the  sisters  advanced  and  set  them  at  lib- 
erty, while  the  raft  remained  motionless  on  the  surface  of  the 
water.  A  wave  was  at  that  moment  raised  by  the  sea-monsters, 
which  approached  the  raft,  and  seemed  ready  to  overwhelm  it, 
Habib  saw  that  no  time  was  to  be  lost  in  saving  his  amiable  com- 
panions from  the  danger  that  threatened  them.  He  took  his 
scimetar  in  his  hand  and  plunged  into  the  sea,  pronouncing 
aloud  the  sacred  word  inscribed  on  the  talisman. 

The  waters  seemed  to  arrange  themselves  to  afford  him  9 
passage  ;  the  billows  subsided,  and  the  sea  became  smooth.  A* 
last  the  hero  arrived  at  a  shallow  sand-bank,  on  which  he  pro- 
ceeded to  the  shore  without  interruption. 

He  saw  his  enemies  dispersed  in  small  parties,  who  seemed 
ready  to  betake  themselves  to  flight  at  his  approach.  He  ad- 
varced  towards  those  that  appeared  most  formidable,  flew  on 
them  with  the  rapidity  of  lightning,  and  whoever  ventured  to 
ippose  him,  instantly  sunk  under  the  dreadful  strokes  of  his 

*  rime  tar. 

Mokilras  the  enormous  tiger,  came  up,  walking  on  his  bindei 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  473 

fret,  and  aimed  a  blow  at  the  hero  with  a  monstrous  club  ;  but 
instantly  resuming  his  own  nature,  ran  off  on  four  feet.  Habib 
pursued  him ;  but  human  strength  and  agility  were  insufficient 
to  the  contest ;  he  therefore  pronounced  the  sacred  word,  add- 
ing, "  Mokilras  !  1  arrest  thee  in  the  name  of  Solomon  !  "  .1  he 
monster  remained  immovable.  One  stroke  of  the  scimetar 
severed  his  head  from  his  body,  and  his  skin  was  immediately 
stripped  off. 

As  soon  as  the  tyrant  of  the  Yellow  Isle  was  despatched,  the 
elements  returned  to  their  natural  order,  and  a  calm  succeeded 
to  the  dreadful  storms  by  which  they  had  been  agitated. 

When  the  three  daughters  of  the  sea  were  again  assembled 
about  the  raft,  the  young  Ilzaide  raised  herself  upon  it,  and 
with  a  long  marine  trumpet  called  together  the  affrighted  dol- 
phins, and  they  were  obedient  to  her  voice.  Innumerable  in- 
habitants of  the  ocean  crowded  about  the  place,  who  united 
their  voices  in  joyfully  singing  the  victories  of  the  hero,  and 
thus  approached  the  shore  at  the  moment  of  his  triumph  over 
Mokilras. 

H^Jbib  returned  to  the  raft,  but  refused  to  accept  the  homage, 
or  rather  adoration,  that  was  offered  to  him.  "  Creatures  of 
God,"  said  he,  "  worship  your  Creator ;  lift  your  eyes  to  heaven, 
and  thank  the  Almighty  for  your  deliverance.  It  is  to  him 
alone,  your  gratitude  is  due.  Subjects  of  Dorathil-goase,"  cried 
he,  "  reserve  those  expressions  of  submission  and  respect,  for 
your  qeeen ;  her  knight  will  join  you  in  doing  her  homage, 
and  in  offering  up  prayers  for  her  prosperity." 

When  he  had  finished  his  speech,  a  multitude  of  people  as- 
sembled about  him  from  ah1  quarters,  whose  presence  at  once 
increased  his  triumph  and  his  embarrassment.  Every  one 
seemed  more  forward  than  another  to  swear  allegiance  to  him, 
and  to  demand  a  renewal  of  the  laws.  Happily  the  old  geni 
Balazan  came  to  his  relief. 

As  soon  as  all  the  inhabitants  of  the  White  Isle  had  submit 
ted  to  the  authority  of  that  geni,  he  made  a  vigorous  effort 
to  rise  intc  the  air,  that  ha  might  follow  the  successful  hero  tf 

40* 


<74  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

whom  he  owed  his  deliverance ;  and  after  a  hard  struggle,  b« 
now  joined  the  young  Habib  in  the  Yellow  Island,  at  thf 
moment  when  the  inhabitants  of  that  country  were  doing  him 
homage. 

"  Subjects  of  Dorathil-goase,"  cries  the  old  geni,  "  this  gal- 
lant knight  accepts  your  testimonies  of  gratitude.  Return  to 
your  possessions,  and  enjoy  them,  while  you  live  under  the 
laws  of  our  sovereign.  And  you,  valiant  knight,"  addressing 
himself  to  Habib,  "  you  may  now.  take  a  little  repose.  The 
conquest  of  the  Red  Isle  is  not  an  enterprise  worth  your  while. 
I  will  go  alone  on  the  raft,  and  bear  with  me  the  skin  and  the 
arms  of  Mokilras.  At  the  sight  of  that  terrible  trophy,  the 
rebels  will  of  their  own  accord  submit  their  necks  to  our 
chains.  Reserve  your  strength  for  the  conquest  of  the  Green 
and  Blue  Islands,  and,  above  all,  that  of  the  Black  Isle." 

Habib  despised  a  victory  that  might  be  obtained  without 
clanger ;  he  therefore  committed  the  conduct  of  the  enterprise 
to  Balazan,  and  took  repose,  that  he  might  be  invigorated  foi 
his  future  labors. 

The  young  hero  was  still  asleep  when  Balazan  returned 
from  the  Red  Isle,  carrying  in  his  hands  two  bags  formed  of 
goat-skin.  "  These,"  cried  he,  while  he  awaked  Habib,  "  these, 
my  brave  knight,  are  all  the  remains  of  our  dangerous  enemies 
to  be  found  in  the  country  which  I  have  just  now  restored  to 
the  dominions  of  our  queen.  I  have  enclosed  them  in  these 
bags  that  I  may  forthwith  send  them  to  the  caverns  of  mount 
Caucasus.  To-morrow  you  may  proceed  without  obstruction 
to  the  Red  Isle,  and  then  consult  the  means  of  pursuing  your 
victories ;  but  it  is  impossible  to  foresee  all  the  dangers  you 
must  encounter.  The  tyrant  Nisabic  governs  the  Green  and 
Blue  Isles ;  the  enchantments  of  this  geni  are  almost  as  power- 
ful as  those  of  AbarikafF  himself.  It  is  impossible  to  inform 
you  of  the  various  means  he  may  use  to  repel  your  attacks 
your  own  prudence  and  ingenuity  must  direct  you  in  avoiding 
Buch  dangers  as  are  visible,  and  in  guarding  against  the  secret 
mates  that  may  be  laid  for  you.  We,  alas !  could  do  nothing 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  474 

but  what  power  «an  oppose  the  gallant  knight  of  DcrathSl 
goase ! " 

Opposition  and  difficulty  only  served  to  inflame  the  courage 
of  the  Arabian  prince.  At  the  earliest  dawn  he  set  out  with 
the  raft,  and  the  dolphins  conducted  him  to  the  Red  Isle.  He 
went  round  the  point  of  the  island  that  he  might  be  ready  to 
depart  for  the  Green  Isle,  which  he  determined  to  attack  the 
next  day. 

The  daughters  of  the  sea  never  quitted  their  deliverer,  but 
obligingly  served  him  in  whatever  he  wanted.  He  now  called 
to  mind  the  sage  counsels  of  II  Haboul :  "  I  am  less  afraid  of 
the  open  force,"  would  he  say,  "  than  of  the  secret  machina- 
tions of  your  enemies."  The  young  prince,  therefore,  deter- 
mined to  be  on  his  guard  against  those  of  the  genii  with  whom 
he  was  bound  to  contend.  He  fell  asleep,  confiding  in  the 
goodness  of  Providence,  and  arose  next  morning  with  a  heart 
glowing  with  courage  and  hope. 

The  hero  was  proceeding  on  his  voyage  with  tranquillity, 
when,  all  at  once,  the  three  sisters  uttered  a  dreadful  shriek, 
and  the  head  and  hands  of  Ilzaide,  who  swam  by  the  side  of 
the  raft,  suddenly  disappeared.  Habib  instantly  threw  himself 
into  the  sea,  with  his  scimetar  in  his  hand.  He  found  himself 
entangled  in  the  meshes  of  a  net ;  he  pronounced  the  terrible 
word,  and  employed  the  edge  of  his  weapon.  The  net  was 
cut  to  pieces.  He  laid  hold  of  Ilzaide,  placed  her  on  the  raft, 
and  flew  to  the  assistance  of  her  sisters.  When  he  had  placed 
them  in  safety,  he  perceived  the  raft  was  agitated  without 
moving  forward,  and  that  this  was  occasioned  by  the  dolphins 
beitg  entangled  in  the  same  sort  of  netting.  He  disengaged 
them ;  and  that  he  might  open  a  passage,  he  mounted  on  the 
foremost  dolphin,  and  proceeded  towards  the  shore,  striking 
an  the  right  hand  and  the  left  with  his  scimetar,  which  cut  the 
enchanted  net  that  had  been  spread  to  oppose  his  course. 

From  the  summit  of  the  highest  tower  in  his  castle  of  steel, 
flie  tyrant  beheld  an  object  approaching  towards  the  shore, 
He  saw  its  progress  through  the  magical  netting  he  ha<?  spread 


176  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

m  the  water,  but  he  perceived  not  the  Arabian  knight.  H^ 
however,  discovered  three  female  figures,  half  naked,  seated 
on  the  raft,  which  advanced  with  great  rapidity  He  knew 
not  what  species  of  danger  he  had  to  apprehend.  None  could 
be  so  weak  as  to  imagine  that  his  heart  might  be  assailed  by 
female  charms  ;  and  the  precautions  he  had  taken  were,  in  hia 
opinion,  sufficient  to  guard  him  against  the  power  of  enchant' 
ments.  His  palace  was  constructed  of  solid  steel ;  and  it  was 
only  accessible  by  a  vaulted  passage  in  the  rock,  armed  with 
iron  pikes ;  the  whole  vault  being  supported  by  one  key  stone, 
which  was  retained  in  its  place  only  by  a  slender  thread. 
This  defence  was,  he  thought,  proof  against  all  the  arts  of 
magic. 

Nisabic,  confiding  in  the  strength  of  his  palace,  came  out  by 
the  formidable  vault,  and  prepared  to  meet  his  antagonist 
The  group  of  females  still  advanced,  and  the  knight  at  lasl 
leaped  ashore. 

The  monster,  who  was  clad  in  strong  armor,  despised  such 
an  assailant.  He  had  consulted  his  horoscope,  and  discovered 
"  that  none  could  vanquish  him,  without  being  master  of  hia 
steel  house."  It  appeared  to  him  almost  impossible  that  bia 
enemy  could  escape  the  danger  of  the  mysterious  vault ;  and, 
if  he  should  even  be  so  happy  as  to  pass  through  it,  he  thought 
he  could  still  make  no  impression  on  a  fort  which  he  regarded 
as  impregnable. 

Nisabic,  bearing  in  his  hand  a  steel  club  of  enormous  weight 
advanced  to  Habib :  "  Audacious  stranger ! "  cried  he,  "  what 
madness  has  induced  thee  to  rush  on  certain  destruction?*' 
a  I  am  the  knight  of  Dorathil-goase,"  answered  Habib,  firmly ; 
"  I  come  to  punish  the  rebels  against  God  and  the  great  Solo- 
mon." "  Vile  reptile ! "  replied  the  enraged  geni,  "  receive  th« 
death  I  inflict  on  the  meanest  of  my  slaves ! "  While  he  pro- 
nounced these  words,  he  raised  his  dreadful  club,  and  aimed  a 
blow  at  the  head  of  the  young  prince. 

The  hero  warded  off  the  stroke  with  the  blade  of  his  scime- 
tar.  The  effect  was  terrible.  At  the  sight  of  the  awful 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  471 

liar,  i»e  Oub  dropped  from  the  hands  of  the  geti.  and  ht  fell 
motionless  on  the  earth.  He  saw  himself  in  the  power  of  hia 
enemy,  and  muttered  some  dark  words  of  conjuration.  Habib 
flew  on  his  vanquished  foe,  and  endeavored  to  pierce  his  body, 
but  he  was  surprised  to  find  that  it  was  only  his  armor  that 
lay  at  his  feet,  and  that  he '  had  obtained  no  more  than  the 
thett  of  the  warrior.  The  material  substance  of  Nisabic  had 
disappeared ;  and  the  Arabian  prince  did  not  at  that  moment 
atnow,  that  his  victory  was  greater  than  if  he  had  seized  the 
body  of  the  geni.  In  short,  the  prophecy  was  explained  and 
accomplished  which  declared,  "  that  he  who  should  vanquish 
him  must  first  be  master  of  his  steel  house."  The  oracle 
meant  the  armor  in  which  he  was  incased,  and  which  Nisabic 
thought  impenetrable. 

Habib  trampled  under  foot  this  enormous  suit  of  armor; 
and  by  three  or  four  strokes  of  his  scimetar,  unloosed  all  its 
joints,  and  scattered  the  fragments.  Thus  was  another  pre- 
diction of  the  oracle  fulfilled,  which  said,  u  that  the  power  of 
Nisabic  should  be  disjointed  and  scattered." 

The  monster,  by  making  himself  invisible,  and  retiring  undef 
the  vault  that  led  to  his  palace,  had  made  the  last  effort  in  his 
vower.  He  presented  himself  at  the  entrance  of  the  vault  in 
DIS  natural  form,  with  his  sword  in  his  hand,  as  if  he  would  chal- 
lenge his  antagonist  to  single  combat.  The  young  prince  fell 
into  the  snare ;  the  geni  retreated  a  few  steps,  and  cut  the 
thread  which  retained  the  key-stone  of  the  vault,  and  the 
rocks  instantly  began  to  fall  with  a  horrible  crashing  noise. 

At  the  first  alarm  the  hero  pronounced  aloud  the  sacred 
word  of  the  talisman,  and  opposed  the  falling  rocks  by  the 
dazzling  blade  of  his  scimetar.  The  vast  fragments  cf  stone 
arranged  themselves  on  his  right  hand  and  his  left,  without 
doing  the  least  injury  to  the  young  sultan ;  but  he  heard  near 
him  the  most  piteous  cries  arid  groans,  and  was  involved  in  a 
cloud  of  dust.  It  was  the  tyrant  hims.elf  who  uttered  these 
lamentations  :  "  Arabian  prince ! "  cried  the  geni,  "  I  am  made 
acquainted  with  thy  destiny  and  my  own,  by  my  preset  n» 


476  ARABIAN    NIGlfTS 

fortune !  The  oracles  have  deceived  me ;  I  have  long  expect 
ad  thee,  yet  I  knew  thee  not !  Thou  hast  disguised  thy  powei 
under  a  show  of  weakness,  and  I  have  been  vanquished  through 
my  own  imprudence.  Abuse  not  thy  victory;  I  am  buried 
under  these  ruins,  in  a  situation  altogether  insupportable. 
Cause  me,  I  beseech  thee,  to  be  transported  to  the  dungeons 
of  Caucasus,  where  I  may,  at  least,  have  the  comfort  of  ming- 
ling my  groans  with  those  of  my  companions ! " 

"  Geni ! "  answered  Habib,  "  thou  art,  indeed,  guilty  of  many 
crimes ,  yet,  as  I  have  the  soul  of  a  true  knight,  even  an  enemy 
may  demand  a  favor  of  me !  I  must,  however,  take  advice ; 
and  I  will  not  return  thee  an  answer  till  I  have  offered  up 
three  prayers." 

Habib  was  enclosed  in  a  sort  of  pit  amidst  the  rocks.  Scarce 
was  the  cloud  of  dust  dissipated,  when  he  saw  what  he  might 
have  taken  for  two  stars  over  his  head ;  they  were  the  bright, 
eyes  of  Ilzaide,  the  youngest  of  the  three  daughters  of  the  sea. 
"  Are  you  then  safe,  my  prince  ?  "  cried  she.  "  How  happy 
are  we  !  we  trembled  for  your  life  when  we  beheld  this  moun- 
tain tumble  on  your  head  !  Lay  hold  of  my  hair,  sir.  Fear 
not  that  you  hurt  me.  I  have  strength  and  resolution  sufficient 
to  sustain  your  weight."  While  she  said  these  words,  she 
threw  down  her  long  flowing  tresses,  of  which  he  gently  took 
hold,  and  by  this  means  ascended  from  the  cavern. 

His  first  care  was  to  thank  his  benefactress.  "  I  have  done 
nothing,  sir,"  said  she,  "  that  merits  your  acknowledgments. 
Were  it  in  my  power  I  would  make  you  the  happiest  of  mor- 
tals." She  then  lent  him  her  hand,  and  assisted  him  in  pass- 
ing from  one  rock  to  another,  iill  they  came  to  the  exterior 
rampart  of  the  steel  castle,  the .  residence  of  the  geni,  Ni- 
sabio. 

Scarce  were  they  arrived  at  the  outward  fosse  when  they 
observed  the  other  daughters  of  the  sea  at  a  short  distance. 
*  Come,  sisters,"  cried  Ilzaide,  "  here  he  is  "  Nothing  but  a 
*rue  and  sincere  passion  could  have  preserved  our  hero  from 
dw  attacks  of  the  charming  Ilzaide,  which  were  the  mow 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  47  * 

dangerous  as  they  were  the  effusions  of  innocence,  and  purf 
limplicity  of  heart ;  but  his  choice  was  fixed  by  destiny,  and 
the  beautiful  queen  had  nothing  to  fear. 

The  conquest  of  the  Green  Isle  was  not  yet  accomplished. 
The  steel  castle  was  inaccessible  ;  the  fortifications  were  guard- 
ed, the  gates  shut,  and  the  bridges  drawn  up.  "  I  know  not,* 
said  Habib,  "  how  I  shall  set  about  this  arduous  enterprise 
This  fort  seems  impregnable  to  human  force.  I  have  no  con 
fidence  in  my  own  powers ;  the  decrees  of  fate  must  guide  nr 
steps.  Perhaps,"  continued  he,  addressing  the  three  sisters* 
"  the  pretended  submission  of  Nisabic  might  be  a  snare  laid  to 
bring  me  into  new  difficulties  and  dangers,  in  which  it  would 
be  improper  that  you  should  partake.  Return,  then,  to  youi 
native  element.  '  Offer  up  your  prayers  for  the  knight  of  Dor- 
athil-goase ;  at  least,  let  your  absence  make  me  easy  on  yo>ir 
account."  "  We  will  not  leave  you,"  answered  they.  "  Wo 
fear  no  danger  while  you  are  with  us.  If  you  were  by  my 
side,"  added  the  youngest,  "I  would  brave  the  fury  of  the 
tempest,  while  it  tears  up  the  foundations  of  the  rocks  ! " 

Habib  approached  the  draw-bridge  with  his  scimetar  in  his 
hand.  "  In  the  name  of  Solomon,"  cried  he,  "  and  by  virtue 
of  his  talisman,  I  command  this  bridge  to  be  let  down  ! "  In 
a  moment  it  began  to  move  on  its  hinges,  descended,  and  offered 
an  easy  passage  over  the  fosse.  The  hero  with  his  sabre  cut 
the  two  chains  that  served  to  raise  it,  and  entered  the  court  tf 
the  fortress. 

In  the  midst  of  that  court  stood  a  lofty  column,  on  the  top  ot 
which  was  placed  an  iron  cage.  This  pillar  was  covered  with 
talismanic  inscriptions.  On  the  bottom  was  written,  "  Thou 
fanst  not  be  destroyed  but  by  the  power  of  Arabia  !  "  Habib 
utruck  the  talismans  with  hts  sword.  A  sudden  noise  resounded 
from  the  caverns  through  the  vaulted  roofs  of  the  castle,  and 
the  pillar  sunk  into  dust.  The  subjects  of  Dorathil-goase, 
whom  the  tyrant  had  loaded  with  chains,  now  issued  from  theii 
dungeons.  The  iron  cage  stood  on  the  earth,  and  Habib  per- 
reived  that  it  contained  a  very  extraordinary  object  —  a  naked 


f80  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

woman,  whose  face  was  covered  with  her  long  hair.  "  Who  aif 
you,  madam  ?  "  asked  the  hero.  "  Sir,"  answered  she,  "  I  pray 
thee,  deliver  me  from  this  prison  and  give  me  some  garments 
that  I  may  appear  with  decency  before  you.  This  cage  is  shut 
by  means  of  a  talisman,  which  the  cruel  Nisabic  always  carries 
about  with  him.  Restore  my  liberty,  and  I  shall  never  cease 
to  bless  God,  and  Mohammed,  and  yourself."  "  You  will  not, 
I  hope,  forget  the  great  Solomon,"  interrupted  the  knight,  "  in 
whose  name  I  break  these  bars."  At  the  same  time  he  cut 
them  in  pieces  with  his  sabre. 

The  three  daughters  of  the  sea  each  contributed  part  of  their 
dress  to  afford  a  covering  for  the  prisoner,  so  that  she  might 
present  herself  before  the  hero  without  offence  to  modesty.  As 
soon  as  the  subjects  of  Dorathil-goase  saw  themselves  relieved 
from  their  fetters,  they  made  haste  to  show  their  respect  and 
attachment  to  the  unknown  lady,  by  falling  prostrate  at  her 
feet.  Habib  expressed  his  surprise  at  this  behavior :  "  What 
means  all  this  ?  who  is  this  lady  ?  "  asked  he.  "  Alas !  sir," 
answered  they,  "  it  is  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses-  She 
was  our  queen  before  the  rebellion  of  Abarikaff.  She  is  the 
near  relation  of  the  fair  Dorathil-goase." 

u  O  heaven ! "  cried  the  Arabian  prince,  "  a  queen,  the  kins- 
woman of  Dorathil-goase  !  How  shall  I  be  able  to  restore  her 
to  what  she  has  lost  ?  " 

"  Nothing  can  be  easier,"  answered  they.  "  The  tyrant  has 
collected  in  his  fortress,  not  only  all  the  riches  of  our  queen, 
but  the  whole  spoil  of  the  island.  While  you  are  master  here, 
you  possess  abundance  of  treasure.  Those  poor  women  whom 
you  see  at  the  further  end  of  the  court,  and  whose  situation 
forbids  them  to  approach  you,  were  the  servants  of  our  royal 
mistress.  They  showed  too  much  attachment  to  her  after  her 
misfortunes,  and  a  long  imprisonment  has  been  the  reward  be- 
stowed by  the  tyrant  on  their  fidelity." 

"  Bring  hither,"  cried  Habib,  "  all  those  who  have  been  at- 
tached to  the  person  of  your  queen.  Let  them  take  possession 
tf  this  palace,  which  belongs  to  her."  "I  myself  was  in  bei 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  481 

aerviee,"  said  he  whom  he  had  formerly  addressed,  "  and  held 
a  place  of  some  consequence."  "  Thou  mayest  resume  it,"  re- 
turned Habib,  "  if  your  mistress  thinks  fit.  In  the  mean  time 
Use  every  means  to  relieve  her  present  wants  ;  and  when  you 
have  made  her  easy,  since  you  know  this  place,  you  can  point 
out  to  me  the  most  magnificent  apartment  in  the  castle,  that  I 
may  have  the  pleasure  of  conducting  her  into  it." 

In  a  moment,  all  the  servants  who  had  formed  the  house- 
hold of  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses,  were  assembled.  Ha- 
bib presented  them  to  her,  and  at  the  same  time  begged  that 
<*he  would  favor  him  with  her  hand. 

"  To  you  it  belongs,"  said  she,  "  to  command,  in  this  place." 
"  Permit  me,  madam,  as  the  knight  of  Dorathil-goase,  to  have 
the  honor  of  reconducting  you  to  your  palace." 

The  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  cast  down  her  eyes,  and 
suffered  the  hero  to  lead  her  into  the  splendid  apartment  that 
had  been  prepared  for  her  by  the  geni,  but  which  she  had  pre- 
ferred to  the  iron  cage  she  had  just  left.  Everything  was  in 
the  most  superb  style.  A  profusion  of  riches  was  accumulated 
around  her,  and  the  lady  found  no  difficulty  in  providing  suita- 
ble garments  for  herself  and  her  whole  court. 

The  three  daughters  of  the  sea  followed  her,  and  as  the 
«x>mpanions  of  the  Arabian  knight,  claimed  the  honor  of  being 
permitted  to  trim  her  beautiful  hair. 

"  Alas ! "  cried  she,  "  these  locks  have  been  the  cause  of  my 
misfortunes,  yet  they  have  also  been  a  resource  during  my  suf- 
ferings, and  I  do  not  regret  the  care  I  have  taken  to  preserve 
them.  With  pleasure,  therefore,  1  commit  them  to  your  care." 
The  beautiful  queen  arose  from  her  toilet  with  a  triple  crown 
on  her  head,  formed  of  her  braided  hair,  entwined  with  strings 
of  rubies  and  pearls,  while  two  loose  tresses  waved  gracefully 
on  her  back,  and  descended  lower  than  her  girdle. 

She  was  no  sooner  dressed  than  an  usher  entered  to  announce 

that  dinner  was  ready.     She  invited  the  'three  sisters  to  dine 

with  her,  and  the  gallant  Habib  led  her  into  the  hall.     Now 

ftras  the  Arabian  knight  seated  at  a  table  with  ladies  for  the  first 

41 


*82  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

»ime  in  his  life;  nor  had  he  enjoyed  a  repast  tlat  was  not  tiu 
immediate  produce  of  his  own  industry  or  that  of  others  foi 
six  months  before.  The  entertainment  was  sumptuous,  foi 
there  was  no  want  of  provisions  in  the  kitchens  and  stores  of 
Nisabic. 

The  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  was  in  the  flower  of  youth. 
fl.  3r  stature  was  graceful  and  majestic ;  her  shape  perfectly 
handsome ;  her  bright  eyes  were  expressive  of  languor  and 
keen  sensibility ;  in  short,  it  was  impossible  to  behold  her  with- 
out sympathizing  with  her  misfortunes  ;  and  no  heart,  but  one 
entirely  preoccupied,  could  have  resisted  her  charms.  Habib 
regarded  her  with  a  look  of  tender  compassion,  and  Hzaide 
meeting  the  glance  of  his  eye,  felt  the  sting  of  jealousy  without 
suspecting  the  cause. 

During  the  repast,  the  company  reciprocally  showed  each 
other  the  most  polite  attentions,  and  when  it  was  finished,  they 
retired  into  another  apartment.  There,  as  soon  as  they  were 
seated,  iiabib  entreated  the  fair  queen  to  favor  them  with  a 
recital  of  her  ill-fortune.  The  lady,  heaving  a  sigh,  and  wiping 
the  tears  from  her  lovely  eyes,  began  in  this  manner :  — 

Story  of  the  Lady  of  the  beautiful  Tresses. 

My  father  swayed  the  sceptre  over  the  Green  and  the  Blue 
Isles,  under  the  favor  of  his  brother  (the  father  of  Dorathil- 
goase,)  to  whom  he  annually  did  homage,  and  offered  a  tribute. 
I  am,  like  my  cousin,  the  only  offspring  of  a  marriage  con* 
traeted  between  a  prince  and  the  daughter  of  a  geni. 

Ulabousatrous,  father  to  my  aunt  Camarilzaman,  and  chief 
of  the  spirits  subject  to  Solomon,  had  formed  the  project  of  es- 
tablishing in  this  country  all  the  genii  obedient  to  that  great 
prophet.  To  prevent  their  relapse,  he  wished  them  to  inter- 
marry with  the  children  of  Adam.  Many  of  them  refused  thesa 
teims,  among  whom  were  Abarikaff,  Mokilras.  and  Nisabic* 
They  offered  many  pretended  reasons  for  tl  eir  revolt,  but  theii 
truj  motive  to  rebellion  was  their  ambition  to  possess  sovereign 
Authority. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  484 

1  Ijst  my  parents  about  the  same  time  that  my  cousin  Dora 
thil-goase  was  deprived  of  hers.  I  saw  myself  thus  seated  on 
a  throne,  under  the  guidance  of  an  old  vizier  whom  my  fathei 
had  chosen  for  me.  The  insolent  Nisabic,  a  favorite  of  Abari- 
kaff *s  became  in  love,  not  with  my  person,  but  with  these  locks 
cf  hair. 

He  had  convinced  himself,  by  prognostics  drawn  from  hia 
§nchantments  that,  if  he  could  espouse  me,  he  might  subject  to 
his  power  as  many  genii  as  there  are  hairs  in  my  head,  and 
that  each  individual  hair  would  serve  to  chain  one  geni. 

The  monster  had  the  audacity  to  communicate  to  me  hia 
extravagant  project,  and  to  represent,  by  way  of  inducing  me 
to  comply,  the  great  power  I  might  by  this  means  enjoy.  I 
rejected  his  offers  with  disdain,  and  bestowed  my  hand  on  the 
young  prince  Dalilsha,  who  already  possessed  my  heart.  Scarce 
were  we  united,  when  the  rebellion  of  Abarikaff  was  declared. 
He  r'rew  into  his  revolt  all  the  inhabitants  of  the  Black  Isle, 
over  whom  he  had  been  placed  as  vizier.  Legions  of  rebel 
spirits  came  to  join  his  standard,  from  the  most  distant  parts 
of  the  earth.  Ulabousatrous  and  his  grand-daughter  could 
Bcarce  maintain  their  ground  in  the  Island  of  Medinaz-il-bal- 
lor ;  nor  could  they  afford  the  smallest  aid  to  those  who  were 
subdued  by  Mokilras  and  Nisabic,  under  the  authority  of  Aba- 
rikaff. 

Dalilsha,  my  husband,  was  sent  prisoner  to  the  Black  Isle, 
where  the  traitor  Abarikaff  kept  him  as  a  hostage  while  the 
wicked  Nisabic  again  renewed  to  me  the  offer  of  his  odious 
hand. 

"  My  queen,"  said  he,  "  your  hand  is  now  disengaged,  nor 
can  you  reserve  it  for  my  slave.  It  belongs  in  right  to  the 
conqueror."  "  Vile  rebel,"  cried  I,  "  the  malignant  stars  that 
have  favored  thee  will,  one  day,  receive  the  punishment  due 
tc  their  crimes."  He  retired  in  a  rage,  and  shut  me  up  a 
prisoner  in  my  palace.  Every  day  he  renewed  his  importuni- 
ties, which  I  constantly  repelled  with  the  utmost  contempt; 
but,  blinded  as  he  was  by  the  horoscope  he  had  drawn,  he  still 
oontinu  id  to  recmire  my  hand  in  the  most  imperious  tone. 


484  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

At  last,  when  he  found  he  had  nothing  tc  bope  from  entr  jat 
<es  or  commands,  he  determined  to  employ  the  most  terrible 
severities  against  me.  I  threatened  to  pull  out  the  fatal  hairs 
by  the  roots.  "  I  shall  soon  prevent  that,"  cried  he ;  "  they 
shall  henceforth  be  your  only  resource." 

The  monster  then  enclosed  me  in  the  iron  cage  from  which 
you  delivered  me.  In  my  miserable  captivity,  my  life  was 
sustained  by  his  enchantments.  I  was  allowed  no  food  but 
the  air,  no  drink  but  my  tears ;  my  hair  was  my  only  protec- 
tion against  the  inclemency  of  the  weather ;  the  only  covering 
that  remained  to  conceal  my  confusion,  exposed,  naked  as  1 
was,  to  the  eyes  of  so  many  spectators.  Thus  did  he  force 
me  to  preserve  these  locks,  which  were  the  source  of  my  mis- 
fortunes, and  the  object  of  his  vain  hopes. 

Each  morning  he  carne  to  the  bottom  of  the  pillar  and 
asked  if  I  was  weary  of  suffering,  and  would  now  consent  to 
give  him  my  hand?  I  entreated  that  he  might  permit  me  to 
die.  He  answered  me  by  sprinkling  some  water  from  his 
hand  into  the  air.  "  Live,  suffer,  weep,  comb  your  hair  with 
your  fingers ! "  cried  he,  with  an  air  of  cruel  triumph.  Every 
night  he  urged  me  to  come  to  his  bed,  repeating  the  same 
words. 

This,  brave  knight,  is  my  sad  history.  It  is  impossible  for 
me  to  guess  how  long  my  sufferings  have  endured,  as  I  was 
continually  absorbed  in  melancholy  reflections.  You  have  in 
some  measure  relieved  me  from  my  troubles  ;  but  separated  as 
I  am  from  a  husband  whom  I  tenderly  love,  and  afflicted  with 
the  idea  of  the  torments  to  which  he  is  without  doubt  subject- 
ed, I  cannot  taste  the  joy  which  the  sight  of  my  deliverer,  and 
my  happy  change  of  fortune  would  otherwise  inspire  ! 

When  she  had  ceased  to  speak,  the  lady  of  the  beautiful 
iresses  burst  into  tears,  and  by  a  sort  of  involutary  motioa 
which  had  become  habitual  to  her,  put  her  fingers  into  her  hai/ 
is  if  to  comfc  it. 

Habib  had  never  before  had  an  opportunity  of  commiser 
*ting  the  sufferings  of  others.  The  recital  of  the  lady's  di* 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  48ft 

grace  inspired  him  with  a  feeling  altogether  new  to  his  mind 
His  soul  was  moved,  and  he  shed  a  torrent  of  tears.  Ilzaide 
began  to  sob  so  heavily  that  she  was  obliged  to  rise  from  hei 
seat  and  go  out.  Her  elder  sister  followed  her.  "  What  is 
the  matter,  Ilzaide?"  asked  she ;  "  why  don't  you  contain  ycur- 
self  before  the  company  ?"  "I  cannot,"  answered  the  younger 
aister ;  "  that  lady's  story  has  too  deeply  affected  our  Arabian 
knight.  You  are  not  like  me,  sister;  I  can't  bear  that  he 
should  suffer  the  smallest  degree  of  pain."  While  she  talked 
in  this  manner,  she  was  re-conducted  to  her  place. 

The  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  observing  the  uneasiness 
of  the  company  on  her  account,  composed  herself;  and  Habib, 
as  soon  as  he  had  mastered  his  own  emotions,  addressed  her  in 
this  manner : — 

"  Madam,"  said  he,  "  I  swear  by  the  sacred  scimetar  with 
which  I  am  entrusted,  that  your  husband  shall  be  restored  to 
you,  and  that  I  will  avenge  the  injuries  done  to  Dorathil 
goase  and  yourself,  till  the  last  of  your  enemies  are  extermi 
nated ! 

"  If  I  may  credit  the  word  of  Nisabic,  he  already,  in  part, 
suffers  the  punishment  due  to  his  abominable  crimes  by  being 
at  this  moment  buried  under  the  vast  heap  of  rocks  with  which 
he  wished  to  overwhelm  me.  I  am  more  than  avenged  for  all 
the  evil  he  intended  me.  But  Heaven,  Dorathil-goase,  and 
yourself,  madam,  call  for  more  ample  vengeance.  Let  us  go 
together  to  the  foot  of  these  rocks  under  which  he  expected  to 
crush  me.  I  will  employ  for  his  punishment  the  very  means 
his  horoscope  pointed  out  to  him,  as  the  fittest  to  subject  others 
to  his  power. 

"  Deign  to  accompany  me,  madam,  that  I  may  under  thi> 
protection  of  Heaven,  put  an  end  to  your  troubles,  and  afford 
you  the  satisfaction  of  seeing  your  injuries  revenged." 

He  then  went  out,  followed  by  the  lady  of  the  beautiful 
tresses,  and  the  three  sisters,  and  advanced  to  tlie  vast  pil« 
y£  rocks,  which  now  stopped  up  the  passage  between  the  ram 
parts  of  the  castle  aad  the  shore. 

41*      • 


186  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

When  they  arrived  on  the  spot,  Habib  struct  Xhe  rock 
ihrice  with  the  scimetar,  and  pronounced,  with  a  loud  voice, 
« Nisabic !  if  thou  dost  still  groan  under  these  rocks,  give  a 
sign,  —  it  is  the  Arabian  knight  who  calls  thee!"  At  that 
moment  the  enormous  mass  of  stones  began  to  heave,  and  a 
dreadful  groan  was  heard.  The  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses 
knew  the  voice,  and  trembled  at  the  sound. 

"  Rebel  geni,"  resumed  Habib,  "  I  am  still  ignorant  of  many 
crimes  you  may  have  committed ;  but  before  I  can  send  the* 
to  expiate  them  in  the  caverns  of  Caucasus,  thou  must  be 
humbled  in  the  presence  of  a  queen  whom  thou  hast  basely 
insulted ! " 

When  he  had  said  this  to  the  geni,  he  next  addressed  himself 
to  the  queen.  "  Madam,"  said  he,  "  this  impious  spirit  wished 
to  make  use  of  your  hair  for  the  purpose  of  subjecting  to  his 
power  other  beings  like  himself.  It  will  be  proper  to  punish 
his  foolish  ambition  by  the  very  means  he  hoped  to  employ  in 
Batifying  it." 

Habib  again  struck  the  rock,  and  cried  out, "  Guilty  wretch  1 
thou  shalt  have  three  of  those  hairs  you  so  eagerly  desired 
but  they  shall  become  chains  of  iron  on  thy  neck,  thy  h^  ids, 
and  thy  feet."  He  then  threw  the  hairs  into  the  air,  pro- 
nouncing with  a  firm  and  solemn  tone  of  voice :  "  Noble  crea- 
tures of  God !  spirits  who  watch  over  the  elements,  servants 
of  Mohammed  and  friends  of  Solomon,  chain. this  criminal, 
throw  him  at  the  feet  of  her  whom  he  hath  offended,  and  then 
bear  him  hence  to  the  dungeons  of  Caucasus ! " 

Dreadful  shrieks  were  heard,  the  rocks  opened,  and  Nisabic 
came  forth  loaded  with  chains.  He  stood  for  an  instant  hum- 
bly bending  his  head  to  the  earth,  before  the  lady  of  the 
beautiful  tresses,  and  suddenly  disappeared. 

While  the  hideous  monster  was  presented  to  their  view, 
flzaide  concealed  herself  behind  the  knight.  The  fair  queen 
could  not  restrain  her  emotions  of  fear  and  disgrast.  "  Take 
courage,  madam,"  said  Habib,  "you  see  that  your  hair  is  a 
eredous  treasure.  It  shall,  this  very  night,  fre(  you  from  all 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  481 

four  enemies  that  remain  shut  up  in  the  prisons  of  this  castle, 
and  whose  poisonous  breath  infects  the  air.  The  same  meang 
will  be  effectual  against  those  who  are  lurking  about  this  island, 
in  hopes  of  escaping  my  vengeance.  Nor  is  this  all.  I  here 
see  a  certain  and  easy  method  of  subjecting  the  whole  rebel 
genii  in  the  Blue  Island,  without  the  trouble  of  going  in  pur- 
suit  of  them.  I  hope  also  to  see  your  powerful  hairs  prevail 
against  the  tyrant  Abarikaff  himself;  and  thus  will  the  horo 
scope  be  verified  at  the  cost  of  your  enemies,  and  those  of 
Dorathil-goase,  which  foretold,  'That  your  locks  should  fur- 
nish chains  for  legions  of  genii/  You  need  not  be  sparing  of 
your  hair,  madam;  yield  to  the  call  of  destiny,  and  whatever 
you  give  away  will  be  amply  replaced." 

The  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  returned  to  her  chamber, 
and  the  three  sisters  attended  at  her  toilet  to  undress  her. 
Confident  in  the  wisdom  and  virtue  of  the  knight,  she  plucked 
out  a  whole  handful  of  her  hair,  and  gloried  in  the  thought  of 
its  being  so  nobly  employed.  Ilzaide  received  the  prize  from 
her  hand,  and  flew  with  it  to  the  hero.  Habib  then  went  to 
the  gates  of  the  prisons  and  performed  the  necessary  ceremonies, 
and  all  the  rebel  spirits  were,  at  his  command,  instantly  trans* 
ported  to  the  dungeons  of  Caucasus. 

He  next  mounted  on  the  terrace  at  the  top  of  the  castle, 
scattered  a  portion  of  the  hair  into  the  air,  and  invoked  the 
slaves  of  the*  Prophet,  commanding  them  to  give  the  charm 
effect  against  all  their  remaining  enemies  in  the  Green  Isle, 
and  also  against  those  who  were  in  possession  of  the  Blue  Isle. 
He  heard  a  confused  sound  of*  distant  groans,  which  assured 
him  of  the  success  of  his  operation. 

He  indulged  a  moment's  reflection  on  what  he  nad  done : 
u  Were  I  now  to  stand  before  thee,  my  dear  H  Haboal.  I  mighl 
appear  less  humbled  than  formerly ;  but  I  could  not  be  vain. 

"  The  words  have  passed  from  my  lips,  and  miracles  have 
followed.  I  have  conquered,  —  shall  I  glory  in  my  strength  ? 
My  words  are  but  a  breath !  my  strength  but  as  one  of  thoo€ 
t*irs  I  hold  in  my  hand ! "  While  he  said  this,  he 


488  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

put  into  Lis  bosom  the  remaining  lock  of  the  lady's  precioul 
hair,  and  returned  to  the  hall  to  join  his  company. 

"  Be  not  uneasy,  madam,"  said  he  as  he  entered ;  "  you  are 
delivered  from  your  enemies.  My  destiny  and  my  duty  re- 
quire that  I  should  leave  you  to-morrow ;  but  if  Heaven  shall 
favor  my  arms,  you  may  rest  'assured  that  I  will  not  lose  sight 
af  my  dearest  interests.  To-morrow  I  shall  have  the  honor  to 
oear  the  commands  to  the  Blue  Isle.  I  must  carry  with  me 
he  amiable  companions  of  my  labors.  I  have  yet  two  seas  to 
>ass  !  and  I  may  still  have  need  of  their  kind  assistance  in  a 
country  where  the  tyrants  have  destroyed  every  means  of 
navigation." 

The  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  was  sorry  to  part  so  soon 
with  the  young  hero,  to  whom  she  owed  her  deliverance ;  but 
she  thought  it  her  duty  to  yield  to  a  request,  in  the  motive  of 
whivh  she  was  deeply  interested.  They  took  leave  of  each 
othei*  with  every  testimony  of  the  most  perfect  esteem. 

At  the  earliest  dawn,  Habib  with  his  fair  companions  de- 
parted. The  raft  flew  over  the  waves,  and  reached  the  shore 
of  the  Blue  Isles  before  mid-day.  The  inhabitants  were  as- 
sembled to  testify  their  joy  at  their  sudden  and  unexpected 
deliverance.  Their  oppressors  had  been  vanquished  and  car- 
ried off  before  their  eyes,  yet  they  knew  not  by  whom. 

Habib,  on  his  arrival,  increased  their  satisfaction  by  inform- 
ing them  of  the  happy  deliverance  of  their  queen.  As  they 
were  the  neighbors  of  the  Black  Isle,  he  made  inquiry  as  to 
what  had  passed  there,  and  what  success  Abarikaff  had  had 
in  his  attack  on  the  isle  that  still  remained  faithful  to  Dora- 
thil-goase. 

"  Sir,"  answered  the  inhabitants,  "  ever  since  the  rebels  have 
had  possession  of  this  isle,  there  has  not  been  even  a  fishing- 
boat  seen  on  our  coast.  By  their  nature  they  could  communi« 
cate  with  each  other  through  the  air ;  but  we  were  deprived  of 
every  means  of  intercourse  with  other  human  beings.  We 
were  not  permitted  to  leave  the  shore,  and  we  could  learn 
nothing  of  what  happened  elsewhere.  Whether  owing  to  * 


ENT  ERTA  NMENTS.  48 

rear  or  distant  storm,  we  cannot  tell,  but  the  aim  f  the  sea 
that  flows  between  the  islands,  has,  within  these  few  days,  be- 
come much  blacker  than  usual.  The  waves  are  constantly 
agitated,  though  no  wind  nor  current  is  perceptible.  We  are 
of  opinion  that  the  passage  from  hence  to  the  Black  Tsle  has 
become  extremely  dangerous,  though  we  cannot  explain  the 
cause.  Indeed,  the  dread  of  the  tyrant  has  prevented  every 
inquiry  of  that  sort." 

The  Arabian  hero,  resolving  to  see  with  his  own  eyes  nexi 
morning  the  dangers  they  had  described  to  him,  accepted  their 
hospitable  invitation ;  and,  without  communicating  anything 
of  his  design,  cheerfully  partook  of  their  amusements  and 
festivity. 

He  arose  before  the  return  of  day,  mounted  his  raft,  and 
coasted  along  the  Blue  Isle,  till  he  had  passed  its  limits.  He 
then  attempted  to  enter  the  strait  which  separates  it  from  the 
Black  Isle,  but  the  waves  were  so  furiously  agitated  that  the 
dolphins  took  fright,  and  ran  ashore  on  the  Blue  Isle. 

Habib  in  vain  struck  the  waves  with  his  sabre,  and  even 
pronounced  the  awful  word  which  had  dissolved  all  other  en- 
chantments, without  effect.  The  charms  against  which  he  now 
contended  did  not  act  in  the  air,  and  the  means  by  which  his 
raft  was  thrown  ashore  were  perfectly  natural,  though  the 
remote  cause  was  not  so. 

Vast  fishes,  and  marine  monsters,  collected  from  all  the 
neighboring  seas,  were  assembled  in  this  strait  to  oppose  the 
passage  of  our  hero.  The  waves  being  loaded  by  their  enor- 
mous bodies,  were  thrown  into  such  commotion,  that  a  larga 
vessel  might  have  been  overset  by  the  surge.  The  pertuibato1! 
waters,  in  short,  exhibited  the  most  hideous  spectacle.  The 
daughters  of  the  sea,  accustomed  as  they  were  to  the  sight  of 
the  monstrous  inhabitants  of  the  deep,  aiid  notwithstanding  the 
presence  of  the  brave  knight,  could  not  resist  the  terror  of  u 
eight  so  new  and  »o  strange.  They  fled  with  precipitation  to 
tLe  land,  and  put  themselves  under  the  protection  of  tie  Are 
bias  prince,  who  stood  motionless,  absorbed  in  thought. 


190  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

"  What  danger  can  this  be,  that  has  frightened  the  dolphins, 
and  the  daughters  of  the  sea.  What  charm  has  resisted  the 
tremendous  word  I  have  pronounced  ?  The  sword  of  Solomon 
is  useless  in  the  hands  of  him  who  has  not  his  wisdom.  My 
dear  H  Haboul,  where  art  thou  ?  Inspire  me,  I  beseech  thee. 
Dangers  must  be  met,  and  closely  examined.  Means  are  to 
he  tried,  that  we  may  judge  of  their  nature. 

"  Sword  of  Solomon,  open  to  me  a  passage  through  the  abyss 
of  the  sea,  or  bear  me,  if  it  be  needful,  upon  its  raging  billows." 

The  hero,  while  he  spoke  thus,  stood  upon  the  pinnacle  of  a 
high  rock,  from  which  he  threw  himself  headlong  into  the  sea. 
Monstrous  fishes  crowded  around  him,  but  without  doing  him 
the  smallest  injury.  Wherever  he  struck  with  his  scimetar, 
death  followed  the  blow.  His  track  was  marked  with  blood  ; 
but  the  number  of  fishes  seemed  still  to  increase.  They  pressed 
upon  him,  in  every  direction,  being  confined  by  the  barriers 
that  prevented  their  escape. 

The  warrior  covered  the  sea  with  the  dead  bodies  of  the 
monsters,  and  fatigued  himself  in  vain,  while  the  scaly  legions 
that  surrounded  him  seemed  every  moment  reinforced.  At 
last  he  raised  his  head  above  the  heaps  of  slain  that  floated 
about  him.  "  In  the  name  of  Solomon,"  cried  he,  "  by  what 
ever  charm  these  fishes  are  confined  here,  let  it  be  destroyed, 
and  let  them  be  dispersed  through  the  vast  regions  of  the 
deep!" 

This  command  was  followed  with  immediate  effect.  A  tumul- 
tuous motion  of  the  waves  announced  the  retreat  of  the  aqua- 
tic animals,  and  the  whole  crowd  instantly  disappeared.  Habib 
now  swimming  amidst  a  calm  sea,  only  saw  about  him  the  deac* 
fishes  that  lay  motionless  on  the  water.  Whatever  possessed 
Jfe  had  escaped.  The  three  sisters  beheld  what  passed,  from 
the  summit  of  a  rock.  Ilzaide  cried  out  with  terror  as  often 
ts  she  observed  the  sea  stained  with  blood ;  but  when  she  saw 
the  arm  and  the  sword  of  the  hero  above  water,  "Thank 
Heaven,"  cried  she,  "  that  blood  is  none  of  his ! "  The  sea  wa* 
sow  smcoth,  and  she  observed  that  the  knight  directed  hii 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  49 1 

tours t  towards  the  opposite  shore.  "  See,"  cried  Ilzaide,  "  seo, 
he  attempts  to  brave  the  waves,  and  cross  the  sea  by  swim- 
ming! he  will  certainly  perish."  She  plunged  into  the  water, 
that  she  might  fly  to  his  aid.  Her  sisters  called  to  her  in  vain, 
and  at  last  threw  themselves  into  the  sea  after  her.  Nor  were 
(hey  her  only  followers ;  two  dolphins  who  had  been  disen- 
tangled from  the  raft,  and  who  delighted  to  sport  around  their 
young  mistress,  were  at  her  side.  The  tranquil  waters  opposed 
not  the  course  of  such  dexterous  swimmers,  and  they  proceeded 
with  astonishing  rapidity. 

Ilzaide  expected  soon  to  reach  the  object  of  her  anxiety,  and 
offer  him  assistance ;  but  in  a  moment  the  hero  plunged  under 
the  water,  and  disappeared.  She  dived  at  the  same  time,  and 
witnessed  the  horrible  conflict. 

Habib  was  now  engaged  with  Abarikaff  himself,  who  had 
entered  into  the  body  of  a  whale,  and  exerted  his  utmost  ef- 
forts. When  the  hero  advanced,  the  prodigious  animal  opened 
its  enormous  jaws,  and  poured  forth  a  torrent  of  water  which 
seemed  to  overwhelm  him ;  but  Habib  soon  appeared  above 
the  waves,  and  leaping  on  the  back  of  the  monster,  with  his 
irresistible  scimetar,  pierced  the  heart  of  the  vast  animated 
mass  with  which  he  contended. 

The  huge  monster  began  to  struggle,  covering  the  sea  with 
blood  and  froth,  and  in  an  instant  sunk  to  the  bottom.  Habib., 
unable  to  breathe  in  the  watery  element,  was  forced  to  rise 
to  the  surface,  but  he  still  followed  the  bloody  track  of  his 
wounded  enemy.  When  his  strength  was  nearly  exhausted, 
Ilzaide  came  up  to  him  :  "  Brave  knight,"  cried  she,  "  mount 
on  one  of  these  dolphins.  You  are  too  adventurous.  How  ia 
it  possible  that  you,  whose  nature  is  no  more  than  human, 
should  thus  risk  yourself  in  the  open  sea,  and  do  as  you  have 
done ! " 

The  Arabian  prince  thanked  heaven  for  its  protection,  and 
for  the  aid  now  sent  him.  He  followed  the  advice  of  Ilzaide. 
and  seated  on  the  dolphin,  observed  at  his  ease  the  conse- 
quences rf  the  terrible  combat,  in  which  he  had  tieen  victorious 


IVJ2  ARABIAN    NIGHTS" 

WTien  Abarikaff  attacked  the  hero,  he  was  attended  by  othei 
rebel  genii,  accomplices  of  his  crimes,  who  had  assumed  hide* 
aus  forms  like  his  own.  But  his  danger  made  the  others  betaka 
themselves  to  flight. 

Struck  with  terror  they  only  thought  of  making  t/ieir  escape, 
They  endeavored  to  leave  the  bodies  of  those  whales,  sword- 
fishes,  sharks,  and  sea- lions,  of  which  they  had  taken  posses- 
sion by  their  enchantment,  but  a  more  potent  charm  retained 
them.  It  was  the  hair  of  the  fair  queen,  of  which  Ilabib  had 
thrown  a  portion  into  the  sea,  in  a  moment  of  enthusiasm. 
"  May  those  hairs,"  cried  he,  "  bind  as  many  slaves  to  God,  in 
the  name  of  Solomon,  as  the  wicked  Nisabie  hoped  to  subject 
by  their  means  to  his  own  power  ! " 

The  charm  attached  to  these  hairs  had  operated,  and  from 
that  moment  the  genii  were  held  captives  in  the  bodies  of  the 
monsters  into  which  they  had  entered. 

The  whale  possessed  by  Abarikaff,  exhausted  by  the  loss  of 
its  blood,  now  lay  without  motion  on  the  surface  of  the  water, 
and  appeared  like  a  floating  island.  The  Arabian  knight  sprang 
from  his  dolphin,  and  mounted  on  the  back  of  his  vanquished 
enemy,  where  he  gave  thanks  to  God  for  his  victory. 

"  My  confidence,"  cried  he,  "  is  in  thee  alone !  I  fear  not  to 
plunge  into  the  abysses  of  the  deep.  Even  there  hast  thou 
thus  opened  my  eyes,  and  given  strength  to  my  arm !  I  have 
attacked  this  enormous  monster,  and  my  sword  has  pierced  hia 
heart !  When  my  powers  sunk  under  fatigue,  thou  didst  send 
M  relief.  A  child  in  thy  hand  is  more  powerful  than  a  legion 
of  the  wicked ! " 

Ilzaide,  emboldened  by  the  sight  of  the  valiant  prince, 
*eaped  also  on  the  back  of  the  vast  fish.  Her  sisters  came  up, 
attended  by  six  other  dolphins,  and  were  prevailed  on  to  follow 
the  example  of  Ilzaide. 

In  the  mean  time  the  enormous  mass  which  bore  them  wa» 
driven  along  with  the  current  of  the  tide,  and  passed  the  chan- 
nel which  led  to  the  Black  Isles.  Habib,  after  receiving  witb 
nodesty  the  congratulations  of  his  companions  on  his  recepl 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  •  495 

ftctcr.es,  asked  them  what  country  it  was  he  discerned  «n  th« 
edge  of  the  horizon.  "  It  is  the  isle  of  Medinaz-il-ball  :>r," 
said  the  eldest  Bister,  "  in  the  capital  of  which  dwells  our  amia- 
ble queen,  Dorathil-goase." 

At  heailng  this  discourse,  Habib  could  not  contain  his  joy. 
"  How ! "  cried  he,  "  do  I  then  at  last  behold  that  long  looked 
for  country  ?  How  happy  would  I  be,  could  I  conduct  the 
monster  under  our  feet  into  the  port  of  your  queen  !  What  an 
agroeable  sight  it  might  afford  her ;  for  I  believe  the  rebel 
At^rikaff  lies  chained  in  the  belly  of  this  whale ! " 

"  Your  wish  may  be  accomplished,"  said  the  eldest  of  the 
Jiree  sisters  ;  "  though  the  raft  will  be  rather  unwieldy.  We 
will  go  to  the  bottom  of  the  sea  in  search  of  marine  plants,  of 
which  we  may  form  a  harness  to  yoke  our  dolphins."  In  a  mo- 
ment they  plunged  into  the  water  and  disappeared. 

By  their  address  and  activity,  they  soon  obtained  what  they 
sought.  The  dolphins  were  yoked,  and  the  body  of  the  whale, 
no  longer  impelled  by  the  current,  now  took  its  course  towards 
the  harbor  of  Medinaz-il-ballor. 

Heavy  groans  issued  from  the  bowels  of  the  enormous  car- 
cass,  with  a  hollow  sound,  resembling  the  rushing  of  the  waves 
when  they  are  dashed  into  some  profound  cavern  of  the  rocks 
on  the  shore.  Abarikaff  saw  himself  about  to  be  delivered  up 
to  the  vengeance  of  Illabousatrous  and  Dorathil-goase,  from 
whom  he  expected  no  mercy. 

In  the  mean  time,  the  huge  mass  which  approached  the  show 
of  the  isle  of  Medinaz-il-ballor  attracted  the  notice  of  Ilbacca- 
ras,  whose  office  it  was  to  keep  watch  over  all  the  territories  of 
Dorathil-goase  adjacent  to  the  coast  of  the  Black  Isle.  That 
vizier,  transformed  into  a  bird,  had  taken  his  station  on  the 
middle  region  of  the  island,  the  inferior  parts  of  the  country 
being  infested  by  parties  of  the  rebels.  He  observed  some 
commotion  in  the  sea ;  but  could  not,  on  account  of  the  dis- 
tance distinguish  the  cause.  He,  however,  saw  what  appeared 
like  a  point,  detach  itself  and  float  on  the  water.  He  ven- 
tared  to  deso3nd  from  his  post,  and  was  surprised  to  find  thai 

42 


*94  ARABIAN   NIX5HTS* 

the  air  wa&  entirely  free ;  yet  he  was  still  suspicious  of 
secret  snare,  and  approached  with  great  caution  towards  th«? 
earth.     All  the   vapors   that  had   covered  the  coast  of  Me-k 
dinaz-il  -bailor,  and  the  neighboring  sea,  had  now  retired  to  th* 
Black  Isle,  which  seemed  overwhelmed  by  the  thick  cloud. 

By  degrees  the  small  point  seemed  to  extend  as  it  approach- 
ed them,  and  at  last  it  appeared  like  a  floating  isle,  capable 
of  choking  up  the  harbor  of  Medinaz-il-ballor.  Nor  did  this 
island  seem  uninhabited,  though  otherwise  entirely  barren.  On 
making  this  discovery,  he  immediately  flew  to  inform  Dorathil- 
goase  of  what  he  had  seen. 

"Great  queen,"  cried  he,  "I  come  to  inform  you,  that  I 
have  just  now  observed  some  extraordinary  appearances  on 
the  sea  that  separates  us  from  the  Black  Isle.  Early  this  morn- 
ing I  perceived  a  great  commotion  in  the  waves,  which  was 
not  occasioned  by  the  winds,  for  they  moved  in  an  opposite 
direction.  An  island,  soon  after,  arose  from  the  bosom  of  the 
deep,  which  has  continued  to  advance,  by  what  means  I  know 
not,  towards  your  port.  It  is  of  a  size  sufficient  to  fill  up  the 
whole  harbor ;  and  I  saw  on  its  surface  beings  of  a  human 
form.  Besides,  Abarikaff  has  removed  all  his  sentinels  from 
their  posts.  The  whole  force  of  the  enemy  has  retired  to  the 
Black  Isle,  which  seems  involved  in  darkness. 

"  This  floating  isle  may  be  intended  to  promote  some  new 
stratagem  of  the  enemy,  which  he  has  artfully  concealed  under 
an  appearance  not  very  alarming.  At  any  rate,  since  this  must 
be  the  work  of  enchantment,  you  ought  to  take  every  measure 
your  prudence  can  suggest  to  guard  against  its  effects." 

Dorathil-goase  commanded  that  her  two  ministers,  and  hei 
grandfather,  should  be  informed  of  this  affair.  In  an  instant, 
the  coast  was  covered  with  all  the  warriors  of  the  island. 

Illabousatrous  assembled  all  the  genii  that  remained  faith 
fill  to  him,  that  he  might  be  enabled  to  repel  the  attacks  o* 
Abarikaff,  and  the  other  wicked  spirits  which  had  joined  in  his 
revolt.  Ev  3ry  preparation  was  made  in  the  city  of  Medinaz- 
Q  -bailor,  for  the  most  vigorous  defence,  in  case  the  vast  maw 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  4»6 

which  approached,  should  contain  a  numerous  army  of  hostile 
spirits  ready  to  be  poured  forth  on  their  coasts.  . 

Habib,  whose  eyes  were  constantly  fixed  on  the  place  where 
he  hoped  to  see  the  charming  object  of  his  love,  soon  guessed 
the  cause  of  the  warlike  preparations  he  remarked  on  the  shore. 
As  they  entered  the  road  of  Medinaz,  they  happened  to  pass 
near  a  small  island  covered  with  mangroves.*  The  young 
prince  cut  a  branch  with  his  scimetar  and  presented  it  to  11- 
zaide.  "  Go,"  said  he,  "  charming  maid !  carry  this  branch  aa 
an  ensign  of  peace,  and  demand  an  audience  of  the  queen  Dor- 
athil-goase ;  tell  her  that  an  Arabian  knight,  whose  life  is  de- 
voted to  her  service,  entreats  her  permission  to  throw  himself 
at  her  feet." 

Ilzaide  took  the  branch,  and  dived  into  the  sea.  She  halted 
to  adjust  her  dress  under  a  rock  that  protected  the  mouth  of 
the  harbor.  She  then  emerged  from  the  water,  displaying  the 
mangrove  branch  in  her  hand,  and  required  the  guard  to  con 
dtict  her  into  the  presence  of  the  queen.  It  is  impossible  to 
describe  the  transports  of  joy  with  which  Dorathil-goase 
received  the  message  of  the  fair  ambassadress.  Her  first  min- 
ister, however,  restrained  her  from  flying  to  the  shore,  as  she 
intended.  "  Madam,"  said  he,  "  your  enemy  knows  that  your 
destiny  promises  you  a  deliverer  from  Arabia ;  this  may  be  a 
plot  conducted  under  the  mask  of  innocence  and  simplicity. 
The  vehicle  which  brings  your  knight,  appears  very  suspicious. 
Suffer  me  to  put  some  questions  to  his  ambassadress. 

"Young  daughter  of  the  sea!  (for  such  you  are  from 
your  appearance,)  canst  thou  tell  us  by  what  means  the  knight 
who  has  sent  you  proposes  to  arrive  on  our  island  ?  he  cannot 
come  ashore  on  his  floating  island  without  overwhelming  our 
harbor." 

"Then  you  take  for  an  island,"  answered  Ilzaide,  "thai 

*  The  mangrove,  or  mangle,  is  a  beautiful  marine  plant  or  tree,  com- 
mon in  the  East  Indies.  It  rises  to  the  height  of  forty  or  fifty  feet,  and 
only  gr  ^ws  in  such  places  as  are  washed  by  the  tide  twice  a  day  Th* 
bark  of  a  particular  species  is  much  used  for  making  ropes 


196  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

great  ugly  whale  which  I  saw  hin  kill ;  and  on  the  ba^k  of 
which  my  two  sisters  and  I  mounted  along  with  him !  H€ 
told  us,  that  that  enormous  monster  was  the  queen's  greatest 
enemy,  and  he  wished  to  present  him  to  her." 

u  And  dost  thou  not  recognize  Habib  by  this  exploit  ?"  asked 
the  queen  eagerly,  addressing  herself  to  her  minister. 

"  Not  yet,  madam,"  answered  he,  "  Abarikaff  may  come  and 
take  possession  of  your  port  under  the  form  of  a  whale,  that 
he  may  subject  you  to  his  power,  and  afterwards  give  you 
laws  in  his  own  name." 

u  Abarikaff ! "  repeated  Ilzaide  with  vivacity,  he  and  his 
vile  crew  have  done  us  much  mischief ;  but  I  hope  he  shall  do 
us  no  more.  I  believe  it  is  himself  who  groans  in  the  belly 
of  the  whale  —  at  least  the  hero  says  so." 

"And  pray  thee,  young  woman,  who  is  the  hero?"  resumed 
the  vizier. 

"  It  is  he,"  answered  Ilzaide,  with  a  degree  of  enthusiasm, 
a  It  is  he  who  killed  the  monstrous  shark,  Racachik,  his  son, 
the  tiger,  and  the  huge  giant  clad  in  steel  armor !  It  is  he 
who  delivered  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  ;  he  in  short, 
who  has  vanquished  all  the  monsters  that  oppressed  us. 
Whatever  he  performed  he  did  in  the  name  of  our  queen 
Dorathil-goase.  My  sisters  call  him  a  hero ;  I  know  not  what 
that  means ;  but  if  you  loved  him  half  as  much  as  I  do,  you 
would  fly  this  moment  to  meet  him ! " 

Dorathil-goase,  notwithstanding  her  anxiety,  could  not  help 
smiling  at  this  sally  of  simplicity,  uttered  in  praise  of  the  idol 
of  her  soul.  "  Take  your  flight,"  said  she  to  Ilbaccaras,  "  and 
present  yourself  before  Habid,  in  your  natural  form.  Cause 
him  to  be  commodiously  conducted  hither  by  two  of  you* 
genii ;  and  take  care  to  have  the  whale  dragged  out  upon  the 
sand." 

"  My  sisters,"  said  Ilzaide,  "  have  always  attended  the  hero ; 
I  pray  you,  madam,  let  them  come  along  with  him ;  they  would 
\>e  sorrow  to  part  from  him." 

*  Yes,  my  dear  girl,"  answered  the  queen,  "  let  them  ct«me 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  491 

Tour  sisters  shall  be  as  welcome  as  yourself;  ycj  shall  each 
of  you  be  received  with  kindness." 

"  Dbaccaras  departed,  and  was  satisfied  to  find  that  the  fail 
ambassadress  remained  as  a  hostage.  He  could  now  no  longer 
doubt  the  truth  of  her  report. 

Ilbousatrous  arrived.  "  I  have  this  moment  been  assured, 
my  dear  child!"  cried  he,  "that  you  are  about  to  receive 
your  Arabian  knight,  your  deliverer,  who  has  restored  to  you 
ail  the  dominions  you  have  lost,  and  reestablished  your  author- 
ity. 

The  young  queen  felt  such  an  ecstasy  of  joy  that  she  could 
scarcely  contain  her  emotions.  She  commanded  her  vizier, 
and  requested  her  grandfather,  to  give  the  necessary  orders 
for  the  triumphant  reception  of  her  knight,  her  avenger,  her 
lover,  her  husband.  She  made  Ilzaide  recount  to  her  all  the 
circumstances  of  his  adventures.  During  the  recital  she  wa£ 
alternately  agitated  with  transports  of  joy  and  emotions  of  ten- 
derness. 

Ilbaccaras  had  now  met  the  hero.  He  proposed  to  carry 
him  immediately  into  the  queen's  palace.  "  My  duty  and  my 
regard  to  her  interests,  said  Habib,  "  still  demand  my  pre- 
sence for  a  few  moments.  You  may  drag  the  whale  ashore  ; 
but  I  must  be  present  while  you  do  so.  My  impatience  has, 
on  a  former  occasion,  led  me  into  an  error ;  I  must  now  guard 
against  it.  I  suspect  that  the  cruel  enemy  of  your  queen  still 
lies  in  the  bowels  of  the  monster  he  had  raised  up  against  me. 
I  must  be  assured  that  his  power  is  destroyed,  in  order  to 
acquit  myself  of  my  duty  as  the  servant  of  Solomon,  as  well 
as  to  secure  the  peace  of  your  sovereign."  Ilbaccaras  caused 
the  whale  to  be  drawn  to  a  sloping  part  of  the  shore,  where, 
by  redoubled  efforts,  it  was  at  last  brought  to  land.  Habib 
approached  it,  and  spoke  thus  with  a  firm  tone :  "  Vile  enemy 
of  God ! "  said  he,  addressing  the  monster,  "  Rebel  against 
him  and  his  prophets !  apostate  from  the  law  to  which  thou 
art  subjected — art  thou  concealed  in  the  entrails  of  this  fish?" 
A  sound  resembling  the  gnashing  of  teeth  proceeded  from  th« 

42* 


498  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

belly  of  the  enormous  animal.  "  Speak,"  cried  Habib,  u  or  1 
will  devote  thee  to  the  cruelest  punishments ! "  At  last  & 
dismal  and  plaintive  "Yes,"  was  uttered  from  the  jaws  of  the 
monster. 

The  knight  then  took  from  his  bosom  the  remaining  portion 
of  the  lady's  hair :  "  May  the  projects  of  the  wicked  spirits," 
said  he,  "  now  be  executed  against  themselves.  May  each  of 
these  hairs  become  a  chain  of  iron,  to  deprive  them  of  all 
action !  Mayest  thou  be  delivered  over,  thou  and  all  thy 
slaves,  to  the  servants  of  Solomon,  and  hurled  into  the  lowest 
dungeons  of  Caucasus ! " 

While  Habib  pronounced  this  command,  he  twisted  the  hairs 
about  the  fins  of  the  whale.  The  enormous  mass  made  an 
effort  as  if  alive ;  but  it  was  not  repeated.  The  hairs  of  the 
lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  suddenly  disappeared,  and  were, 
no  doubt,  employed  as  the  hero  had  ordered.  "  My  queen  is 
safe;"  said  HP  bib  to  Ilbaccaras,  "  Let  me  now  have  the  happi- 
ness of  seeing  her ;  conduct  me,  I  pray  thee,  to  her  presence." 

While  the  Arabian  knight  was  taking  measures  to  secure 
the  tranquillity  of  Dorathil-goase  and  her  subjects,  prepara- 
tions were  made  in  the  palace,  and  in  the  city  of  Medinaz-il- 
ballor,  for  the  triumphant  entry  of  their  victorious  deliverer 
and  avenger,  who  was  soon  to  become  their  sovereign.  The 
lovely  queen  strove  to  divert  her  impatience  and  tender  solici- 
tude,  by  making  Ilzaide  repeat  whatever  she  knew  of  her 
cUar  knight;  his  minutest  actions,  his  words,  and  even  the 
most  trifling  circumstances  that  the  young  lady  could  recoiled 
with  regard  to  him,  were  eagerly  listened  to  by  the  queen. 

As  night  had  come  on,  Habib  was  conducted  to  his  apart- 
ment through  the  most  superb  illuminations.  The  royal  mag 
aificence  displayed  on  the  occasion  might  admit  of  description 4 
but  words  are  insufficient  to  describe  the  transports  of  joy  an  j 
respectful  love,  which  inspired  Habib,  or  the  tender  sensibility 
of  the  young  and  beautiful  queen.  Never  did  love  light  up  * 
purer  flame,  never  did  Fate  conjoin  two  hearts  mere  perfectly 
congenial.  So  much  beauty,  so  many  virtues  and  accomplish- 
ments, were  scarce  ever  united  to  such  merit  and  valor 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  491 

Ilabib  felt  an  ecstasy  of  joy,  and  declared  .As  happiness  to 
te  complete.  Dorathil-goase,  who  was  no  less  pleased,  ex 
claimed,  "  Have  I  then  no  more  to  offer  you,  my  dear  Habib, 
than  my  heart,  my  hand,  and  my  crown  ?  A  poor  recompense 
these,  for  such  important  services,  and  for  the  dangers  you 
have  encountered  for  my  sake?  A  reward  how  inadequate 
for  such  heroic  virtue ! " 

The  evening  of  their  meeting  was  also  that  of  their  nuptials. 
The  same  night  that  had  brought  them  together  as  happy 
lovers,  also  witnessed  the  ceremony  which  perpetuated  their 
union ;  and  the  morning  sun  beheld  the  completion  of  then 
felicity,  and  the  joy  of  the  whole  island  of  Medinaz. 

But  the  happiness  of  Habib  did  not  make  him  forgetful  of 
the  obligations  he  had  come  under.  The  prince  Dal-Ilsha, 
husband  to  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses,  still  languished  in 
the  dungeons  of  the  Black  Isle;  and  that  unhappy  country, 
though  no  longer  infested  with  the  enormities  and  the  presence 
of  Abarikaff,  was  still,  without  doubt,  in  very  great  disorder. 

Habib  had  pledged  his  word  to  the  lady  of  the  beautiful 
tresses,  that  he  would  deliver  her  husband  from  his  oppressor. 
He  is  destined  by  the  stars  to  establish  peace  in  the  whole 
dominions  of  Dorathil-goase ;  nor  need  he  employ  other  means 
Jian  those  which  fate  has  put  into  his  hands,  to  pursue  and 
accomplish  his  adventures. 

The  three  daughters  of  the  sea  were  in  the  palace  of  Dora- 
thil-goase, who  loaded  them  with  favors,  when  Habib  thus 
addressed  the  eldest :  "  We  have,"  said  he,  "  some  vessels  here, 
which  might  convey  us  to  the  Black  Isle ;  but  I  prefer  yom 
nvention,  which  has  alr3ady  been  so  serviceable  to  us.  When 
an  affair  is  regulated  by  fate,  its  accomplishment  is  often  made 
to  depend  on  circumstances  so  trivial,  and  on  the  employment 
of  means  apparently  so  insignificant,  that  weak  man  knows 
not  to  what  he  should  attribute  the  success.  Endeavor  then, 
ladies.  I  pray  you,  to  find  our  raft,  if  it  be  not  easier  for  you 
to  form  another.  I  shall  never  be  at  ease  till  I  have  dried  up 
Vhe  tears  ol  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses,  and  till  I  havt 


WO  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

femoved  tJ3  disorders  which  still  disturb  the  repo-3  of  my 
remaining  subjects  in  the  Black  Isle." 

The  three  sisters  received  this  proposal  with  joy.  They 
*aw  themselves  associated  in  the  glory  of  Habib.  Ilzaide  had 
appeared  rather  dejected  since  the  marriage  of  the  hero ;  but 
as  her  esteem  was  sincere,  she  still  loved  him  with  all  her 
hear*  though  she  saw  his  hand  bestowed  on  another,  wLose 
superior  beauty  and  merit  she  could  not  dispute. 

Habib  called  his  charming  queen  to  assist  at  the  council  he 
held  with  the  fair  companions  of  his  adventures ;  and  it  was 
resolved  that  they  should  set  out  on  their  journey  as  soon  as 
the  raft  was  ready.  Dorathil-goase,  however,  proposed  that 
she  should  mount  on  her  roc,  and  hover  about  the  raft  to  give 
notice  in  case  of  the  approach  of  danger.  Ilbaccaras,  one  of 
the  genii  who  was  most  attached  to  her,  and  for  whom  she 
had  the  greatest  esteem,  together  with  two  other  genii,  were 
appointed  to  attend  her  on  the  journey. 

Next  morning  the  raft  was  ready,  and  Habib  put  to  sea 
about  sun-rise.  The  dolphins,  by  which  it  was  drawn,  seemed 
to  redouble  their  exertions  and  swiftness,  and  the  coast  of  the 
Black  Isle  soon  came  into  view.  Ebaccaras  observed  with 
pleasure,  and  made  the  queen  also  remark,  that  the  coast  was 
entirely  free  from  those  black  vapors  which  had  formerly  ren- 
dered the  aspect  of  the  place  so  dismal. 

Habib  landed  without  difficulty  or  opposition.  He  met  only 
with  a  few  of  the  wretched  and  half-starved  inhabitants  wan- 
dering about  the  shore.  He  called  them  together,  and  inquired 
what  news  they  had  of  Abarikaff,  their  tyrant.  "  He  is  van- 
quished," said  they,  "  at  least  we  have  reason  to  think  so,  from 
the  terrible  cries  of  his  attendants.  JT  was  but  the  day  before 
yesterday  we  were  obliged  to  flee  to  the  mountains.  In  an  in- 
stant, a  multitude  of  the  most  hideous  sea-monsters  had  covered 
the  coast.  Their  fury  was  inconceivable ;  they  fought,  and 
tore  each  other  in  pieces,  and  the  sand  on  the  shore  is  yet 
ttained  with  their  blood.  We,  who  have  been  so  long  th  3  un« 
oappy  slaves  of  those  monsters,  were  glad  to  escape  their  fury 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  5fi 

and  to  turn  our  eyes  from  a  spectacle  so  horrible.  Then  roar- 
ing, their  yells,  reiterated  by  numerous  echoes,  still  resounded 
in  our  ears  and  continued  to  terrify  us,  when  suddenly  we 
thought  we  saw  a  glance  of  lightning,  and  the  whole  noise 
ceased.  We  passed  the  night  in  the  greatest  disquiet  and  in 
continual  alarm,  from  the  impression  of  terror  which  still  re- 
mained on  our  minds ;  but  this  morning  we  could  perceive 
nothing  else  but  the  infectious  vapors  that  arose  from  the  blood 
which  those  monsters  had  shed.  Had  it  not  been  dried  up  by 
f.he  sun  and  happily  driven  off  by  the  wind,  the  island  might 
have  been  rendered  uninhabitable." 

While  Habib  held  this  conference  with  the  inhabitants,  the 
roc  hovered  over  the  island ;  and  the  unhappy  people,  terrified 
by  so  many  prodigies,  lifted  their  eyes  towards  that  object  with 
an  air  of  consternation  and  solicitude.  But  the  knight  removed 
their  fears.  •'  You  see  nothing  here,"  said  he,  "  that  should 
alarm  you.  I  am  the  husband  of  Dorathil-goase,  your  queen. 
The  object  you  see  in  the  air,  is  the  roc,  on  whose  back  your 
queen,  my  royal  consort,  is  seated ;  she  comes  with  me  to  afford 
fou  that  assistance  which  you  need  so  much  at  present,  and  to 
3stablish  peace  and  good  order  among  you.  But,"  asked  he, 
"  where  is  Abarikaff  's  palace  ?  " 

"  Sir,"  answered  the  inhabitants,  "  we  are  ourselves  at  a  loss 
what  to  think  on  the  subject.  It  stood  here,  on  this  plain,  and 
now  we  cannot  discover  the  least  vestige  of  it.  It  assumed 
various  fantastic  shapes,  and  changed  its  form  almost  every 
day.  When  it  was  on  the  land,  it  sometimes  looked  like  a 
fierce  mastiff  of  enormous  size  ;  in  the  air,  it  usually  had  the 
appearance  of  a  prodigious  bird  ;  and  in  the  sea,  it  resembled 
a  whale." 

"  He  had  some  prisoners,  too,"  continued  Habib.  "  What 
has  become  of  them?"  "Sir,"  answered  they,  "if  any  per- 
sons have  been  so  unhappy  as  to  be  detained  in  his  gripe,  they 
Viust  be  in  a  very  languishing  and  miserable  state.  The  tyrant 
would  not  suffer  them  to  die ;  but  neither  would  he  allow  them 
>a  live." 


602  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

"Do  you  know  the  prince  Dal-Ilsha?"  resumed  Hahih 
*  TV  e  have  heard  of  him,  sir.  He  was  loaded  with  chains  on 
account  of  his  wife's  beautiful  hair,  which  the  tyrant  and  hia 
attendants  wished  to  obtain ;  but  which  he  would  never  con* 
sent  to  grant  them."  "  Go,"  said  Habib,  search  for  him  every* 
where.  I  shall  reward  the  man  who  discovers  to  me  the  un- 
fortunate prince." 

The  inhabitants  obeyed,  and  soon  found  Dal-Ilsha  stretched 
on  the  grass,  on  the  spot  where  the  dungeons  formed  by  the 
enchantments  of  Abarikaff  were  situated,  near  his  palace. 
They  instantly  made  a  sort  of  litter,  and  bore  the  emaciated 
prince  into  the  presence  of  Habib  and  his  companions. 

The  daughters  of  the  sea  were  not  backward  in  affording 
their  assistance  to  an  object  so  worthy  of  their  compassion. 
Dorathil-goase  observed  from  her  elevation  the  stir  which  this 
affair  occasioned.  Curious  to  know  the  cause,  and  secure 
against  every  apprehension  of  danger  by  tl?e  presence  of  the 
hero,  she  made  the  roc  to  descend  near  the  busy  scene  which 
had  attracted  her  attention.  She  immediately  joined  the  three 
sisters  in  their  care  of  the  unfortunate  prince.  Ilbaccaras,  too, 
offered  his  help ;  and  by  means  of  powerful  elixirs,  they  so  far 
restored  the  husband  of  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses, 
that  he  was  able  to  rise  up  to  speak,  and  thank  his  benefactors 
for  their  good  offices. 

He  was  made  acquainted  with  the  happy  deliverance  of  his 
spouse,  and  of  his  subjects ;  he  learned  that  it  was  owing  to 
the  knight  who  stood  before  him,  and  who  was  now  the  husband 
of  Dorathil-goase  his  kinswoman.  He  expressed  the  deepest 
sense  of  gratitude  to  his  benefactors,  and  the  joy  which  he  felt 
at  seeing  them ;  he  added,  that  he  was  impatient  to  fly  to  em- 
brace his  spouse. 

It  was  necessary  in  the  mean  time,  that  Dorathil-goase  and 
Habib  should  settle  the  government  of  the  Black  Isle ;  and 
this  was  devolved  on  Ilbaccaras.  Here  an  opportunity  was 
offered  of  rewarding  the  daughters  of  the  sea ;  and  the  Ara- 
bian knight  ao  3ordingly  bestowed  the  hand  of  the  ddest  on  tht 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  508 

flew  viceroy.  Hzaide,  without  envying  the  good  fortune  of  he* 
sister,  rejoiced  at  the  match.  She,  indeed,  thought  no  marriage 
desirable,  unless  it  were  with  a  hero.  She  joined  heartily  in 
the  mirth  and  festivity  at  her  sister's  wedding,  without  losing 
sight,  however,  of  her  favorite  project  of  espousing  none  but  a 
brave  knight. 

The  island  had  been  desolated  during  the  reign  of  the  rebel 
genii ;  and  the  nobles  assembled  in  order  to  concert  with  their 
new  chief  the  means  of  restoring  confidence  and  happiness  to 
the  people.  Dorathil-goase,  having  taken  these  precautions, 
resolved,  that  in  the  course  of  visiting  the  several  islands 
under  her  dominion,  she  would  carry  the  prince  Dal-Ilsha  to 
the  Green  Island,  stopping,  as  he  passed,  at  the  Blue  Isle,  in 
order  that  when  he  joined  his  spouse  he  might  be  enabled  tc 
lake  proper  measures  for  reestablishing  an  intercourse  by  sea 
Between  those  islands. 

Next  morning  Habib  and  his  two  sisters  put  to  sea  on  the 
raft.  The  roc  ascended  into  the  air.  Dal-Ilsha,  somewhat  re- 
'covered  from  his  long  and  severe  sufferings,  accompanied  the 
queen ;  and  the  rapidity  of  the  voyage  was  favored  by  the 
calms  which  prevailed  at  that  season. 

The  two  sovereigns,  and  the  prince  their  tributary,  found  the 
people  of  the  Blue  Isle  diligently  employed  in  rebuilding  their 
dwellings.  Anxious  to  guard  against  troubles  like  those  which 
they  had  so  frequently  experienced,  the  inhabitants  wished 
nothing  more  than  a  reestablishment  of  those  wise  laws  by 
which  they  were  governed  before  the  rebellion. 

A  fisher's  boat,  the  only  vessel  in  the  Green  Island,  had 
been  despatched  by  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses,  with  an 
assurance  that  she  would  soon  be  ready  to  divide  with  their 
friends  the  treasures  found  in  the  tyrant's  steel  castle ;  and 
fchat  she  only  waited  till  a  vessel  was  built  in  whicl  sb« 
might  venture  to  sea. 

Dal-Ilsha  acknowledged  the  prudent  foresight  of  his  spr.use 
Habib  and  Dorathil-got*»e  approved  of  it  no  less,  and  ;hej 
agreed  to  set  out  instantly  for  the  Green  Island. 


804  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

Now  were  the  tears  of  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  t» 
be  dried  up ;  now  was  she  again  to  see  her  beloved  husband 
who  had  been  so  cruelly  ravished  from  her.  The  two  chaim 
ing  cousins  embrace,  shed  tears  of  affection,  and  their  valiant 
deliverer  participates  in  their  tender  emotions. 

It  was  next  resolved  to  visit  the  White  and  Yellow  isles 
Che  two  kinswomen  were  inseparable,  and  this  seems  to  have 
been  a  condition  agreed  upon  at  undertaking  the  voyage. 

When  the  traveller  arrived  at  the  White  Isle,  Dorathil-goase, 
who  was  constantly  inquiring  into  the  particulars  of  Habib'a 
adventures  and  exploits,  turned  her  eye  towards  the  summit  of 
Mount  Caucasus,  which  was  partly  concealed  in  the  clouds. 
"  Is  it  not  there,"  said  she,  "  where  dwells  our  faithful  II  Ha- 
boul  ?  Since  we  are  thus  far,  my  dear  Habib,  and  since  we 
have  discovered  the  retreat  of  our  best  friend,  how  can  we  re- 
turn without  paying  him  the  tribute  of  gratitude  for  the  many 
services  he  has  done  us  ?  Leave  your  raft  to  the  daughters  of 
the  sea,  mount  with  me  upon  the  roc,  and  to  vary  our  pleasures, 
let  us  now  go  and  taste  the  sweets  of  friendship."  The  desire 
of  the  lovely  queen  was  seconded  by  the  ardent  wishes  of  her 
husband,  and  the  journey  was  determined  on. 

As  they  approached  the  steep  cliffs  which  face  the  sea  on  the 
side  of  mount  Caucasus,  Habib  pointed  out  to  his  queen  the 
place  where,  after  his  escape  from  the  caverns,  he  received  as- 
sistance from  the  daughters  of  the  sea.  The  tender  Dorathil- 
goase  trembled  at  the  idea  of  her  lover's  situation  in  such  a 
horrible  abode.  While  they  hovered  over  the  summit  of  Cau- 
casus, he  made  her  remark  a  part  of  the  deserts  which  he  had 
traversed.  "  1  am  charmed,"  said  he,  "  that  my  queen  can  thus 
tee  at  what  price  I  have  purchased  my  present  happiness  ;  bu: 
that  is  so  great  that  I  now  forget  the  pains  and  trouble  it  has 
cost  me." 

In  the  mean  time,  the  vast  bird  glided  over  the  highest  top  of 
Caucasus,  and  lowering  his  flight  set  down  the  travellers  at  the 
entrance  of  II  HabouFs  cavern.  That  good  genie  had  alreadj 
been  informed  that  something  approached  in  the  air,  whicb 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  5W 

seemed  to  come  towards  his  abode;  and  to  whom  else  could 
such  a  visit  be  intended,  in  a  place  absolutely  inaccessible  to 
the  human  race  ? 

He  stood  near  the  rock  which  concealed  the  entrance  to  his 
cavern.  According  to  his  custom  he  perfumed  the  air  with  a 
pan  of  incense,  which,  by  enchantment  mitigated  the  rigor  of 
,he  climate  in  that  region  of  eternal  frost.  He  was  soon  in- 
formed by  one  of  his  servants,  that  Habib  and  Dorathil-goase 
were  the  guests  he  was  to  entertain.  This  also  made  him  ac- 
quainted with  the  union  of  those  lovers. 

He  came  up  to  receive  the  queen,  assisted  her  to  descend 
i'rom  her  roc,  affectionately  pressed  the  hand  of  Habib,  ex- 
pressed his  satisfaction  at  seeing  Dal-Ilsha  and  his  spouse 
made  the  whole  company  enter  into  the  interior  part  of  hit 
dwelling,  and  seated  them  at  a  table  already  covered  for  them* 

The  roc,  which  had  been  bred  on  Caucasus,  was  no  stranger 
in  this  place.  II  Haboul  soon  learned  the  principal  events  of 
the  successful  expedition  of  his  young  disciple  against  the  re- 
volted genii.  He  already  knew  the  greater  part  of  them. 
The  gates  of  the  cavern,  which  faced  the  sea,  had  been  for 
some  time  opened  every  hour  for  the  reception  of  prisoners, 
who  were  sent  in  the  name  of  Habib.  The  criminal  Abari- 
^aff,  and  all  the  revolted  chiefs,  were  among  the  number. 

When  he  had  learned  from  his  guest  everything  he  had 
.nought  worthy  of  inquiry;  when  they  had  all  enjoyed  the 
pleasures  of  friendship  and  mutual  confidence,  he  conducted 
Dorathil-goase  and  the  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  to  a  com- 
modious apartment  fitted  up  for  their  reception.  He  then  took 
aside  Habib  and  Dal-Ilsha,  and  thus  addressed  the  former  • 
u  My  dear  pupil,  for  I  must  henceforth  esteem  it  an  honor  to  have 
been  your  instructor,  you  have  hitherto  acquitted  yourself  well 
in  the  noble  though  laborious  parts  which  fate  has  allotted  to 
you.  What  remains  for  you  now  to  perform,  is  only  to  satisfy 
the  feelings  of  duty  and  natural  affection.  1  must,  therefore, 
make  you  acquainted  with  a  part  of  the  history  of  your  family, 
which  will  no  doubt  be  very  afflicting  to  you  " 
43 


&ub  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

fclabib  looked  on  him  with  astonishment  and  anxietv.  «  ^ 
tinue,"  said  the  genie,  "  to  show  yourself  worthy  of  Dorathil 
goase,  of  the  great  Salamis  your  father,  of  the  favors  of  heaven 
and  the  peculiar  protection  of  the  Prophet  Solomon.  Arm 
your  soul  with  new  courage,  fortify  yourself  against  an  excess 
of  sensibility.  He  alone  who  can  bravt.V  suffer  under  misfor 
tune,  is  fitted  to  encounter  and  surmount  difficulties." 

After  this  preamble,  H  Haboul  informed  Habib  of  the  ao 
count  the  twenty  knights  had  given  to  Salamis  on  their  reti  tn 
At  the  same  time  he  described  the  afflictions  and  desp  dr  o) 
his  tender  and  virtuous  parent,  on  hearing  of  the  death  ot  > 
beloved  son,  the  only  hope  and  comfort  of  his  declining  year  - 
"  His  gnef,"  said  he,  u  was  so  severe,  that  his  eyes  b  dcame 
two  fountains  of  tears,  the  acrimony  of  which  soon  extinguish- 
ed his  sight. 

"  Being  unable,  by  reason  of  this  defect,  to  exert  his  w  onted 
activity  and  courage,  a  tributary  prince,  whom  he  had  former- 
ly subdued  by  his  arms,  raised  the  standard  of  rebellion  against 
his  master,  and  engaged  others  in  the  revolt.  Those  who  had 
remained  faithful  to  him  were  defeated  in  several  battles ;  and 
as  he  has  received  little  aid  from  his  allies,  he  is  now  in 
danger  of  falling  into  the  hands  of  the  enemy." 

While  H  Haboul  made  his  recital,  Habib  felt  the  strongest 
emotions ;  for  his  soul  was  swayed  by  the  most  violent  as  well 
as  the  noblest  passions ;  but  he  suppressed  his  feelings,  being 
already  armed  against  them. 

"  Command  me !  my  dear  tutelary  genie,"  cried  he,  "  and 
you  shall  see  then  that  I  still  know  my  duty."  "  Mark  then 
what  I  shall  say,"  answered  II  Haboul,  "  You  have  an  easy 
mode  of  travelling,  and  you  must  set  out  for  Arabia  imme^ 
diately.  Your  father,  it  is  true,  has  lost  his  sight ;  but  his 
eyes  are  not  entirely  destroyed.  The  remedy  by  which  they 
wi.l  be  restored  must  be  applied  by  the  same  hand  that  occa- 
sioned the  misfortune,  that  is,  the  hand  of  Dorathil-goase. 

"  This  secret  remedy  is  to  be  found  among  the  treasures  of 
Solomon,  and  there  you  must  go  and  search  for  it.  It  is  non 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  5W 

^either  dangerous  nor  difficult  for  you  to  approach  them*  Tin 
word  written  on  the  talisman  is  the  only  key  necessary ;  be* 
sides,  the  Laborer  of  the  Prophet  has  undoubted  privilege  of 
being  admitted  to  his  shrine." 

"  But,"  said  Habib,  "  if  I  depart  with  my  queen,  what  must 
become  of  Dal-Ilsha  and  his  spouse  ?  How  can  they  attend 
as,  while  their  presence  is  so  necessary  in  their  own  kingdom ; 
wii  who  could  quiet  the  fears  of  the  people  in  mine,  during 
our  absence." 

"  When  you  advanced  towards  Caucasus,  in  your  distress, 
my  dear  Habib,  how  did  I  contrive  to  lend  you  my  aid  ?  The 
eanie  means  still  remain  with  me.  I  can  send  back  the  lady 
of  the  beautiful  tresses  and  her  husband  in  safety  to  the  Green 
Island.  The  same  slave  of  the  Prophet  who  re-conducts  them 
on  the  roc,  will  convey  information  concerning  you  to  Ila- 
bousatrous,  your  grandfather,  and  to  your  viziers.  You  may 
therefore,  proceed  with  tranquillity  on  your  way  to  Arabia. 
I  cannot  now  accompany  you  thither.  My  duty  retains  me  in 
this  place,  and  my  business  has  been  more  than  doubled  since 
your  expeditions.  I  found  it,  indeed,  altogether  impossible  to 
comfort  your  affectionate  father,  by  telling  him  what  news  I 
could  of  your  exploits. 

"  If  you  are  willing,"  continued  II  Haboul,  "  to  follow  my 
advice,  you  will  not  alight  at  first  in  your  father's  territories. 
You  will  conduct  your  spouse  to  the  little  cottage  in  the  moun- 
tain, which  was  once  our  retreat.  As  nothing  there  could 
excite  the  avarice  of  the  plunderers,  it  has  escaped  their  fury 
during  the  rebellion.  The  furniture  which  Dorathil-goase  car- 
ries along  with  her  travelling  pavilion,  will  serve  for  her  ac- 
commadation ;  nor  need  you  fear  that  the  granddaughter  of  a 
g  mi  will  suffer  from  want,  where  there  is  such  plenty  of  fish 
game,  and  delicious  fruits. 

"  You  will  be  under  the  necessity,"  added  the  genie,  "  whea 
you  enter  the  treasury  of  Solomon,  there  to  deposit  the  scime- 
tar  which  you  was  permitted  to  use  in  subduing  his  enemies. 
It  is  not  an  ordinary  weapon ;  and  I  know  you  desire  ro  othci 


508  ARABIAN   NIGHTS" 

ftdvaf  tage  over  enemies  who  are  your  equals,  than  sucL  at 
may  be  obtained  by  prudence,  experience,  and  superior  cour- 
age. But  you  must  not  venture  into  the  camp  unarmed ;  fof 
hostilities  may  perhaps  be  unavoidable.  I  will,  therefore,  pre- 
sent you  with  two  complete  suits  of  armor,  formed  in  the 
Parthian  manner,  and  resembling  those  I  wore,  when  I  ap* 
peared  in  front  of  your  camp  ;  to  this  shall  be  added  the  trap- 
pings and  coverlets  for  your  horses ;  and  of  these  things  you 
can  make  whatever  use  your  prudence  may  suggest." 

"  My  dear  H  Haboul,"  said  Habib,  "  my  heart  yearns  to- 
wards my  father.  Henceforth  I  shall  hold  my  life  of  no  esti- 
mation, till  I  have  brought  him  relief.  Show  me,  I  pray  you, 
the  path  which  may  conduct  me  to  the  talisman,  that  shall 
restore  sight  to  the  author  of  my  days.  A  moment's  delay 
would  pain  me  to  the  heart;  and  I  am  sure  that  Dorathil- 
goase  will  participate  in  my  impatience." 

The  charming  queen  was,  no  doubt,  well  disposed  to  enter 
into  the  views  of  a  husband,  to  whom  she  was  entirely  devoted, 
And  in  whose  concerns  she  was  so  deeply  interested.  Pre- 
parations were  therefore  made  for  the  journey. 

Habib  descended  into  the  cavern,  where  were  deposited  the 
Arms  of  Solomon.  None  presumed  to  dispute  his  entrance. 
WTien  he  approached  the  trophy  of  arms,  to  which  he  was  to 
affix  the  scimetar,  he  observed  on  the  casque,  two  beautiful 
oval  stones,  of  a  flat  shape,  which  were  connected  by  a  gold 
wire,  and  of  a  size  sufficient  to  cover  the  eyes  of  a  man.  His 
sight  was  dazzled  with  their  lustre.  He  knew  them  to  be  the 
talisman  for  which  he  looked ;  he  took  them  up  and  retirel, 
regretting  that  he  could  no  longer  remain  in  ^»  place  where  he 
was  likely  to  reap  so  much  instruction.  His  sense  of  filial 
duty,  at  that  moment,  suppressed  his  curiosity.  His  only  wish 
was  to  see  Dal-Ilsha  and  his  spouse  depart,  that  he  might  fly 
instantly  to  gratify  those  feelings  of  natural  affection  b/  which 
he  was  irresistibly  impelled. 

But  one  care  still  remained  to  make  him  uneasy.  He  bad 
left  the  two  daughters  of  the  sea  in  the  White  Island.  He, 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  501 

kh  trefoil,  engaged  the  prince  and  his  lair  spouse  to  halt  a« 
that  island,  in  order  to  carry  the  two  ladies  along  with  them. 

Next  morning  at  day-break,  the  two  rocs  ascended  into  th« 
air,  and  took  opposite  courses. 

Towards  the  evening  of  the  third  day,  the  children  of  Sala- 
mis  came  in  sight  of  his  tents.  The  prodigious  bird  on  which 
they  sat,  alighted  near  the  palisadoes  which  guarded  the  en- 
trance to  the  little  cottage,  formed  by  Habib  and  II  Haboul, 
as  a  place  of  retreat. 

The  happy  pair  entered  it.  The  genie,  who  guided  the  roc, 
unloaded  the  animal,  turned  him  out  to  search  for  food,  and 
instinct  taught  him  to  find  it.  Habib,  and  Dorathil-goase,  im- 
patiently waited  the  return  of  day;  and  as  soon  as  it  appeared, 
they  lost  no  time  in  proceeding  to  their  purpose. 

It  was  thought  necessary  that  Habib  should  be  disguisod 
when  he  entered  his  father's  tents,  that  he  might  not  too  sud- 
denly surprise  his  fond  parents.  He  soon  obtained  a  disguise 
suitable  to  his  design. 

He  accidentally  found  among  his  ancient  utensils,  a  pair  of 
old  sandals  in  which  he  used  to  work ;  these  were  his  shoes 
the  skin  of  a  goat  flung  over  his  shoulders,  and  another  girt 
about  his  loins,  made  up  his  dress. 

He  stained  his  neck  and  face  with  a  yellow-colored  earth, 
which  concealed  the  natural  tint  of  his  skin ;  he  disordered  his 
hair  and  his  beard ;  and,  having  a  dagger  in  his  girdle,  a  staff 
in  his  hand,  and  a  basket  of  fruit  on  his  arm,  he  passed  the 
entrenchments,  and  arrived  at  the  entrance  to  the  tents  which 
belonged  to  his  mother's  slave. 

He  there  espied  a  large  flat  stone,  on  which  he  sat  down  ; 
and  placing  his  basket  of  fruit  between  his  feet,  he  leaned 
forward  as  if  asleep. 

Several  slaves  passed  and  repassed;  but  he  had  not  yet 
Been  her  to  whom  he  intended  to  communicate  his  secret.  At 
last  she  came,  and  he  called  her  by  name,  for  she  had  been 
his  governess :  "  Esek !  Esek ! " —  "  You  know  me,  then,  young 
man, '  said  the  good  old  lady.  "  Yes,"  answered  Habib,  "  au«J 

43* 


510  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

:f  you  will  follow  me  behind  that  great  tree,  I  '11  tell  you  newi 
that  will  rejoice  our  masters.     Put  my  basket  into  your  tent 
and  if  you  arr  not  satisfied  with  my  discourse,  both  it  and  th« 
fruit  it  contains  shall  be  yours." 

The  aid  woman,  more  from  curiosity  than  avarice,  took  the 
fruit,  and  retired  with  him  behind  the  tree,  which  was  close  by 
the  back  of  the  tent,  and  concealed  them  from  the  view  of  pas- 
wngers  during  their  conversation.  "  Come,"  says  she,  "  what 
have  you  got  to  tell  me  ?  pray  begin." 

"  Will  you  promise,"  said  he,  "  in  case  what  1  may  say  shall 
give  you  extreme  pleasure,  that  you  will  not  cry  out  nor  make 
ihe  least  noise  ?  " 

"  Very  fine,  indeed,"  said  the  old  lady,  "  you  are  then  so  elo 
quf  nt,  are  you  ?  One  could  not  guess  it,  truly,  from  your  cloak, 
or  your  sandals.  Pray,  have  you  often  made  people  cry,  only 
by  talking  to  them  ?  " 

"  No,  good  woman  ;  but  if  you  do  n't  take  care,  you  will  be 
the  first."  But,  thinks  she,  how  comes  it,  that  this  vagrant, 
with  his  basket  of  plums,  talks  so  familiarly  with  me,  and 
calls  me  good  woman,  yet  I  am  not  offended  ?  "  Have  done," 
says  she,  aloud,  "  tell  me  quickly  this  secret,  which  you  say 
will  ,jive  me  so  much  pleasure."  "  Did  you  love  poor  Habib  ?  " 
"  TJ  .en  you  come  here  to  make  me  weep  ?  "  "  On  the  contrary, 
if  you  love  him,  be  comforted,  for  he  still  lives." 

While  he  uttered  these  words  he  seized  her  by  the  hands; 
and  prevented  her  crying  out. 

"  Silence,  silence,  my  good  old  friend !  make  no  bustle,  1 
myself  am  Habib.  I  will  show  you  the  mark  on  my  neck, 
tnd  the  other  on  my  breast ;  I  will  sing  you  the  little  song 
with  which  I  used  to  entertain  you." 

u  How !  how ! "  cried  the  old  governess  in  transports,  when 
iLe  heard  the  sound  of  his  well  known  voice ;  but  Habib  sup- 
pressed her  cries,  by  putting  his  hand  upon  her  mouth. 

"  Beware,"  said  he,  "  you  will  kill  my  mother  with  surprise 
I  come  to  deliver  my  father  from  the  hands  of  his  enemies 
but  my  design  would  be  defeated,  were  they  to  discover  that  I 
am  here. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  511 

*  Be  silent,  then ;  for  God's  sake,  be  silent,  my  dear  gov 
einess.  Show  me  where  I  may  conceal  myself.  If  I  cannot 
enter  by  the  door,  I  will  find  a  passage  some  other  way.  I 
must  instruct  you  in  what  manner  }TOU  are  to  communicate  the 
news  of  my  arrival,  so  as  to  occasion  no  sudden  surprise  to  my 
father  and  mother.  It  is  necessary,  too,  that  it  should  lemain 
a  profound  secret  among  us  four." 

The  faithful  slave  of  Amirala  was  almost  suffocated  with 
her  tears.  Unable  to  utter  a  syllable,  she  could  only  lead  her 
dear  Habib  into  her  tent,  where  no  person  happened  to  be  at 
the  time.  He  there  taught  her  how  to  prepare  his  mother  for 
receiving  the  glad  news,  and  concealed  himself  in  the  best 
manner  he  could.  His  governess,  in  the  mean  time,  went  to 
watch  an  opportunity  of  speaking  to  Amirala,  who  scarcely 
ever  quitted  Salamis. 

Habib  remained  alone,  indulging  melancholy  reflections,  and 
comparing  the  formidable  state  of  his  father's  camp  at  the  time 
be  left  it,  with  its  present  pitiful  condition. 

Scarce  a  fourth  part  remained.  He  was  no  longer  contented 
with  ordinary  barriers ;  he  was  surrounded  with  strong  en- 
trenchments. Whatever  military  operations  were  going  on 
seemed  to  be  merely  defensive. 

It  is  impossible  to  describe  the  impatience  of  the  hero  to  em- 
brace and  console  his  afflicted  parents  ;  to  restore  sight  to  the 
honored  author  of  his  life  ;  and  to  punish  those  mean  and  un- 
grateful rebels,  who,  taking  advantage  of  their  sovereign's  in- 
firmity, had  thrown  off  his  allegiance,  and  even  threatened  his 
personal  liberty. 

Happily,  those  painful  reflections  were  soon  interrupted  bj 
die  return  of  the  old  governess. 

Sleep  had  for  some  time  suspended  the  cares  of  the  venera- 
ble emir ;  and  Amirala  retired  into  her  own  tent  to  take  a  little 
refreshment  and  repose. 

Her  faithful  slave  followed  her.  When  they  were  alonu, 
*  Madam,"  said  she,  "  I  know  you  put  some  confidence  in  my 
irtjams  I  have  long  had  none  but  such  as  were  unhappy  an</ 


012  AKABTAN   NIGHTS 

those,  alas,  have  been  too  often  verified.  My  last,  howevei 
tas  filled  my  mind  with  comfort  and  hope. 

"The  twenty  knights,  who  accompanied  our  child  to  th« 
desert,  have  been  first  cowards,  and  afterwards  liars.  Our 
dear  Habib  is  not  dead.  He  is  well.  I  kissed  the  marks  he 
bears  on  his  neck  and  breast." 

"And  will  your  dreaming  that  you  kissed  those  mark*," 
cried  Amirala,  "  make  the  knights  to  be  liars,  and  restore  ouf 
child  to  life?" 

"  O,  madam,"  answered  the  good  woman,  "  I  embraced  him 
in  my  arms,  and  he  pressed  me  to  his  heart,  which  beat  very 
juick ;  it  was  not  the  heart*  of  a  dead  man,  madam,  I  assure 
you." 

u  But  where,  when  did  you  dream  all  this  ?  " 

"  Just  now,  madam.  Drink  this  cup  of  cold  water,  and  1 
will  tell  you  the  rest." 

Amirala  drank  the  water.  "  Well,"  said  the  old  woman, 
there  will  be  no  danger  now  to  speak  plainly;  but  beware, 
madam,  of  an  excess  of  joy. 

"  Know  then,  that  I  did  not  dream ;  I  saw  him.  I  em- 
braced our  Habib  himself.  He  is  here,  and  resides  in  what  he 
calls  his  little  mountain  retreat.  There  stands  a  basket  of 
plums,  which  he  has  brought  from  thence.  He  came  disguised 
into  the  camp  like  a  poor  peasant,  with  his  face  bedaubed  with 
clay.  He  is  resolved  to  make  himself  known  to  none  but  his 
father  and  us.  He  told  me  it  was  for  the  good  of  his  father's 
affairs  to  keep  his  arrival  secret.  Our  Habib,  you  knew,  is 
wise ;  his  advice  must  be  followed." 

Notwithstanding  the  precaution  of  the  glass  of  water,  Ami- 
rala's  spirits  began  to  fail.  She  cast  her  eyes  on  the  basket, 
and  could  only  utter  these  words :  "  Here  are  plums  from  hia 
garden  ! "  The  governess  then  made  her  smell  some  fragran. 
essences.  "  Take  courage,  madam,"  said  she,  much  happiness 
awaits  us,  which  may  compensate  our  past  sufferings  ;  my  Ha« 
bib  told  me  so.  Your  eyes  shall  this  night  behold  the  heavens 
uid  you  shaDI  not  there  find  a  star  that  is  not  for  us  I" 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  5 1 S 

"But  where,  where  is  he ? "  said  Amirala,  when  she  re- 
covered the  use  of  speech.  "In  my  tent,  behind  the  greal 
bulrush  hamper,  which  contained  the  stuffs  you  received  from 
Chiraz.  Take  heart,  madam,  come  with  me  and  see  him.  We 
will  shut  ourselves  up  with  him ;  we  will  comb  his  hair ;  we  will 
wash  his  face ;  and  I  am  much  deceived  if  we  do  not  find  him 
more  beautifu)  than  ever." 

Amirala  made  trial  of  her  strength.  She  was  conducted 
with  difficulty  to  the  tent  of  the  kind  governess.  There,  after 
using  every  necessary  precaution  to  prevent  being  discovered 
or  surprised,  the  hamper  taken  down,  and  Habib  himself  pros- 
trated at  the  feet  of  his  mother,  who  was  seated  on  the  govern- 
ess's couch,  the  essences  were  again  had  recourse  to  for  re- 
viving the  spirits  of  both  the  mother  and  the  son,  who  had 
mutually  sunk  into  a  trance. 

.  When  they  had  somewhat  recovered,  "  Ah !  my  dear  Habi  V 
cried  Amirala,  "  by  what  favor  of  gracious  Heaven  are  you  thus 
restored  to  my  arms  ?  " 

"By  that,  madam,  which  was  promised  me  by  the  stars. 
You  see  before  you  the  husband  of  Dorathil-goase  —  the  king 
of  the  Seven  Seas ;  the  instrument,  —  though  unworthy,  of  the 
great  Solomon,  —  the  conqueror  of  the  enemies  of  God  and 
his  prophet.  But  I  would  only  bewail  my  successes,  did  I  not 
bring  with  me  a  physician,  who  is  able,  in  a  moment,  to  restore 
Bight  to  my  father." 

"  Restore  the  sight  of  Salamis ! "  exclaimed  Amirala.  "  Yes, 
madam,"  answered  Habib,  "  and  that  physician  is  my  wife  her- 
Belf,  commissioned  by  the  decrees  of  Heaven  to  perform  thia 
miracle." 

"  Your  wife ! "  returned  Amirala,  " and  where  is  she ?  "  "In 
the  cottage  in  my  garden.  She  waits  for  an  Arabian  dress, 
You  will,  therefore,  order  two  dresses  to  be  prepared  ;  one  tot 
her,  under  which  she  may  conceal  her  sex ;  and  another  for 
me,  in  which  I  may  pass  through  the  camp  without  being  dis- 
covered. 

*  It  Is  proposed,  madam,  to  introduce  to  my  father,  in  th« 


514  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

riew  of  thj  whole  camp,  an  Arabian  physician  with  his  «l 
Order,  then,  the  most  trusty  of  the  emir's  grocms,  and  he  in 
whose  prudence  you  can  repose  the  most  confidence,  to  follow  me 
to  my  retreat  with  three  mules.  Let  him  take  care  that  the 
barriers  be  left  open  for  him  on  his  return. 

u  You  will  inform  your  slaves  that  you  have  called  a  phy- 
sician, for  whose  accommodation  a  tent  must  be  provided  this 
night.  We  will  arrive  about  sun-set,  and  we  shall  need  no 
ether  than  my  kind  governess  to  serve  us. 

u  Till  that  time,  madam,  you  may  prepare  my  father,  by  re- 
lating such  stories  as  may  raise  in  his  mind  some  hopes  of  my 
safety.  Inspire  him  with  confidence  in  the  skill  of  an  Arabian 
physician,  who  requires  no  more  than  to  see  his  eyes,  to  touch 
them  with  his  fingers ;  and  who  engages  by  that  means,  in  a 
moment  to  restore  his  sight.  For  my  own  part,  I  will  remain 
concealed  till  after  the  operation." 

Everything  was  executed  according  to  Habib's  directions , 
he  instantly  set  out  for  his  retreat,  followed  by  his  father's 
groom  with  three  mules.  He  had  led  the  way  in  silence ;  but 
when  they  approached  the  palisadoes,  he  called  to  the  man  by 
his  name.  The  groom  seemed  struck  by  the  sound  of  his  voice. 
"  Fear  not,"  said  he, "  I  speak  to  you  with  Habib's  voice,  for  I 
am  Habib  himself.  When  you  come  into  the  cottage,  you  may 
find  what  may  surprise  you  more.  You  will  there  see  the 
queen,  my  royal  spouse.  Prepare  yourself,  then,  to  execute 
whatever  we  shall  command  for  the  service  of  the  emir,  my 
father." 

The  groom  could  scarce  persuade  himself  that  he  was 
awake ;  but  the  work  he  was  ordered  to  perform  soon  con- 
vinced him  that  he  was  not  under  the  illusion  of  a  dream. 

Habib  commanded  him  to  load  two  of  the  mules  with  the 
armor  and  the  horse-trappings  which  he  had  received  from  the 
hand  of  II  Haboul.  He  and  Dorathil-goase  then  put  on  theii 
disguise. 

The  young  physician  mounted  the  best  mule ;  her  slave,  on 
foot,  conducted  one  of  the  loaded  mules,  and  the  other  was  letf 
^y  the  groom. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  51£ 

The  armor  was  covered  with  those  skins  of  lions  and  tigers 
which  had  served  as  furniture  in  the  cottage ;  and  this  littl? 
troop,  in  the  dusk  of  the  evening  presented  themselves^  and 
were  admitted  within  the  lines  of  the  camp. 

In  the  mean  time,  Amirala  and  the  governs*  attended  So- 
Amis,  who  was  now  awake ;  they  addressed  him  'n  a  tone  less 
mournful  than  usual;  and  the  worthy  emir  was  <x  nforted  by 
the  cheerfulness  of  their  discourse. 

"  God  has  been  pleased  to  humble  me,"  said  he ;  "  1  w^s  toe 
proud  of  his  gifts,  and  all  have  been  withdrawn,  that  I  may 
learn  my  own  insignificance.  Yet  I  bless  his  name,  since  you, 
my  dear  Amirala,  seem  as  resigned  to  our  destiny  as  I  am 
myself! 

"  Deprived  as  I  am  of  power  and  glory,  and  cut  off  from 
the  enjoyment  of  light,  I  can  brave  every  danger,  and  even  f  he 
slavery  with  which  I  am  threatened,  while  you  assist  me  in 
supporting  my  misfortunes.  My  enemies  no  longer  fear  my 
arms ;  but  they  will  be  pursued  by  the  vengeance  of  the  great 
prophet,  from  which  they  cannot  escape.  We  shall,  at  last, 
rejoin  our  dear.Habib,  and  be  happy." 

"  Yes,  yes,"  cried  the  governess ;  "  there  is  no  doubt  of  it, 
after  the  dream  both  my  lady  and  I  have  had.  I  am  sure  we 
shall  rejoin  our  dear  Habib." 

"  What  dream  ?  "  demanded  Salamis.  "  Who  y/er  heard  of 
two  people  having  the  same  dream  ?  " 

"  We  have,  however,  both  dreamed  tho  a&cie  thing,"  an 
Bwered  the  governess,  "  and  that  exactly,  in  each  particular. 
We  have  seen  Habib.  He  was  beautiful,  .vas  a  king,  and  pos- 
sessed a  queen,  charming  as  the  houris.  He  still  loved  his 
lather  and  us  with  all  the  tenderness  of  his  nature.  He  hoped 
goon  to  come  here,  and  show  himself  to  you,  and 

"  Show  himself  to  me ! "  interrupted  Salamio  j  "  that  can 
never  be,  at  least  in  this  world;  for  my  eyes,  nlv  !  are  dhul 
forever ! " 

"  You  may,  perhaps,  be  agreeably  deceived,  TO/  lord,"  re 
Burned  the  governess,  "  as  to  this  particular.  We  hitvn  h^a***1 


fcl6  ARABIAN    NIGHTS' 

of  *  wonderful  physician,  whose  skill  is  so  great  that,  if  tlw 
eye- ball  but  remain  entire,  he  can  restore  the  sight  in  a  mo- 
ment, and  without  occasioning  the  smallest  pain." 

"  I  have  already  been  too  long  abused  by  quacks  and  as- 
trologers," cried  Salamis.  «  He  is  neither  one  nor  t'  other,"  said 
she.  "  He  offers  to  pledge  a  thousand  pieces  of  gold  before 
undertaking  the  cure.  If  he  does  not  succeed,  or  if  he  does 
ths  smallest  injury,  he  is  willing  to  forfeit  the  sum." 

"Let  him  come,  then,"  cried. Salamis.  "I  shall  be  glad  to 
gain  a  thousand  pieces  of  gold,  that  I  may  distribute  them 
among  my  poor  subjects  who  have  been  plundered  of  their 
flocks.  It  will  only  cost  me  a  little  patience,  and  the  empiric 
will  be  justly  punished  for  his  vain  pretensions." 

This  compliance  on  the  part  of  Salamis,  was  all  that  Ami- 
rala  wanted.  Habib  and  Dorathil-goase  arrive ;  are  intro- 
duced into  the  apartment  of  the  emir,  and  the  groom  there 
places  the  two  suits  of  armor,  covering  them  with  the  skins  in 
which  they  had  been  wrapped. 

The  operation  on  the  emir's  eyes  is  now  to  be  begun.  But 
no  strangers  are  suffered  to  intrude.  A  supper  is  already  pre- 
pared, which  is  to  be  served  up  by  the  governess  alone.  The 
groom  stands  as  sentinel  at  the  door,  to  restrain  the  impertinent 
inquiries  of  the  crowd. 

Amirala  announces  to  her  husband  the  arrival  of  the  phy- 
sician, and  at  the  same  time  puts  into  his  hand  a  purse  filled 
with  gold. 

"  Weigh  it,"  says  she  to  the  emir ;  "  satisfy  yourself  that 
nothing  is  wanting  of  the  sum,  and  keep  it  in  your  possession, 
to  make  sure  of  it,  in  case  the  operation  shall  fail. 

But  as  you  are  a  sovereign,  this  generous  physician  is  un- 
willing that  you  should  hazard  youi  person  in  the  view  of  so 
paltry  a  compromise  ;  that  the  bargain  may  be  more  equal,  he 
entreats  that  you  will  suffer  him  to  pledge  his  head  for  his 
§uceess." 

"My  drar  Amirala,"  says  Salamis,  "  would ^ you  have  ma 
dream,  as  you  and  the  good  old  woman  there,  do  so  often  f 


ENTERT  A INMENTS.  5 1  rf 

Would  you  make  it  a  dream  for  three  ?  "  u  I  hope,"  answered 
she,  "  my  honored  emir,  it  shall  soon  be  a  dream  for  five !  the 
most  delightful,  the  truest  dream  imaginable.  But  here  comes 
the  physician." 

"  Come  near  me/5  said  the  emir.  "  Is  it  true  that  you  are 
so  certain  of  my  cure  ? "  "  As  certain  as  of  my  existence." 
*  Ah !  you  have  the  voice  of  an  angel,  not  of  a  man.  Are  you 
the  messenger  of  Heaven,  who  brings  me  so  unexpected  a  fa 
ror  ?  for  it  is  from  Heaven  aloqe  I  can  hope  for  such  a  inira 
cle."  u  You  are  mistaken  as  to  the  nature  of  my  essence,  but 
you  conjecture  aright  as  to  my  commission."  "  I  know  not  how 
it  is,  but  your  words  enchant  me,  and  shed  a  raj  of  hope  on 
my  soul.  Look  on  my  eyes."  "  I  see  them.  Permit  m<*.  to 
touch  them,  and  for  an  instant  to  apply  my  thumbs  upon  them.*1 
"  I  feel  an  agreeable  warmth ;  what  a  pleasing  sensation !  some 
happy  change  has  taken  place,  which  is  communicated  to  every 
nerve,  and  my  whole  frame  is  invigorated " 

"  The  operation  is  finished,  my  lord.  Look  up  without  fear. 
The  rays  of  the  sun  will  no  longer  be  offensive  to  your  eyes." 

"  O  heavens  !  Isee  !  "  cried  the  good  emir ;  and  before  taking 
notice  of  any  object  about  him,  he  fell  down  with  his  fact*,  tc 
the  ground,  and  thanked  God  for  his  deliverance. 

Having  finished  his  prayer,  he  arose  and  looked  around ; 
K  Where  is  this  physician  ?  "  cries  he,  in  a  transport.  "  Where 
is  this  messenger  of  God  ?  "  "  Here  I  am."  "  Divine  crea- 
ture!" "I  am  not  divine,  honored  father;  I  am  Dorathil- 
goase,  your  daughter,  devoted  to  you  by  fate.  I  am  the  wife 

of  your  son  Habib."     "  Wife  of  Habib !  draw  near ;  

Amirala,  support  me  ;  my  son  is  married ;  he  lives !  Where, 
where  is  he  ?  "  "  At  your  feet ! "  cries  Habib,  embracing  his 
knees. 

"  O  gracious  Heaven  ! "  exclaims  Salamis,  "  thou  hast  re- 
stored my  strength ;  but  much  is  necessary  to  sustain  this  ex- 
cess of  joy." 

He  remained  for  some  time  deprived  of  sense,  in  the  arnu 
if  his  son  and  the  young  queen.     But  this  was  no  more  than 
44 


518  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

r»  momentary  crisis  of  tenderness,  which  gave  vtot  to  tne  torn 
rent  which  soon  gushed  from  his  eyes.  His  tears  were  mingled 
with  those  of  his  children  and  of  his  wife  Amirala ;  and  the 
good  old  governess,  emboldened  by  the  warmth  of  her  attach 
ment,  presumed  to  join  in  the  tender  scene. 

Natural  offection  here  operated  so  powerfully  that>  for  some 
time,  curiosity,  and  every  other  sentiment,  remained  in  sus- 
pense. 

At  last,  Amirala  recollected  that  she  ought  to  offer  hei 
guests  some  refreshment ;  and  the  governess,  on  receiving 
her  orders,  prepared  to  serve  them. 

The  father  is  seated  at  table  between  his  two  children ; 
Amirala  sits  opposite,  and  enjoys  the  inexpressible  felicity  of 
beholding  the  re-union  of  so  many  objects  of  her  love. 

For  a  long  time  her  breaching  had  been  interrupted  by  con. 
tinu^l  sighs ;  her  mouth  was  seldom  open  but  to  utter  a  com- 
plaint ;  her  heart  was  wrung  with  sorrow,  her  mind  haunted 
with  terrors.  She  shed  the  most  bitter  tears ;  was  dead  to 
every  pleasure,  and  grief  preyed  on  her  vitals.  Every  step 
she  made  seemed  marked  with  misfortune. 

In  a  moment  all  is  reversed.  The  flood  of  tears  that  pours 
from  her  eyes  is  a  delicious  enjoyment ;  her  soul  is  filled  with 
enthusiastic  joy,  and  her  lips  can  give  it  utterance. 

"  Let  my  heart  taste  of  pleasure  ;  it  is  not  now  a  time  to  re- 
sist the  impressions  of  delight ;  let  my  heart  open  and  furnish 
an  abundance  of  tears  ! 

"When  each  tear  I  shed  was  accompanied  with  a  heavy 
groan,  who  could  have  persuaded  me  that  I  should  one  day  find 
such  pleasure  in  weeping  ? 

"  O  laughter,  how  deceitful  art  thou  ?  Thou  canst  not  ex- 
press the  joy  of  the  soul.  Thou  art  a  stranger  to  sweet  sensi- 
bility. Go,  distort  the  faces,  and  mark  the  insipid  mirth  of  the 
Cools  who  court  thee ;  begone  from  those  who  can  taste  the  ten- 
der delight  of  weeping ! 

"  Dorathil-goase  !  Habib  !  how  charming  are  your  tears . 
how  they  exalt  every  beauty  !  how  they  improve  every  feat  ore 
•f  thnae  arurelic  faces ! " 


ENTERTAINMEN  TS.  519 

Amiiala  might  have  proceeded  longer  in  the  langjage  of 
poetry ;  for  the  happiness  she  then  felt  had  inspired  her  with 
ill  the  vivacity  of  youth ;  but  the  situation  of  the  objects  on 
which  her  attention  was  fixed,  began  to  change.  The  repast 
BTHS  short ;  the  governess  had  retired,  and  it  was  now  time  that 
Salamis  should  learn  from  his  son's  own  mouth  in  what  man* 
ner  he  was  restored  to  him  by  the  kindness  of  Heaven. 

The  young  hero  recounted  to  him  his  history,  from  the  mo- 
ment he  set  out  on  the  expedition  to  mount  Caucasus  ;  he  de- 
Bcribed  the  behavior  of  the  twenty  knights  till  the  instant  they 
left  him  exposed  in  the  desert  to  the  rigors  of  the  climate,  to 
famine,  to  thirst,  and  to  the  rage  of  ferocious  animals. 

He  described  all  his  exploits  in  the  most  natural  colors. 
Even  the  fault  he  termed  unpardonable,  which  he  committed 
before  leaving  the  caverns,  and  the  consequences  that  followed 
that  error.  » 

He  proceeded  to  relate  his  meeting  with  the  daughters  of 
the  sea,  a  meeting  which  was,  no  doubt,  ordained  by  fate.  He 
described  in  what  manner  his  labors  were  facilitated  by  their 
assistance,  and  how  they  had,  in  a  manner,  saved  his  life.  In 
short,  he  expressed  the  extreme  felicity  he  enjoyed  since  the 
moment  of  his  union  with  the  charming  Dorathil-goase. 

He  concluded  with  mentioning  the  reasons  which  led  him  to 
return  to  mount  Caucasus ;  how  he  there,  for  the  first  time, 
teamed  from  II  Haboul  the  unhappy  situation  of  his  father,  of 
his  mother,  and  of  his  whole  tribe ;  and  how,  on  this,  he  took 
<he  resolution  of  hastening  to  Arabia. 

Salamis  eagerly  listened  to  this  narrative,  without  interrupt- 
ing him.  When  he  had  done  ,  "  My  son,"  said  he,  "  have  you 
aot  resolved  to  punish  those  treacherous  knights,  who  have  so 
basely  plotted  your  destruction  ?  " 

"  Father,"  said  Habib,  "  I  think  *c  unnecessary ;  I  leav« 
them  to  the  stings  of  internal  remorse,  and  to  the  vengeance  of 
Heaven.  Such  despicable  monsters  are  so  mean,  so  far  be* 
»eath  me,  that  I  cannot  stoop  to  punish  them." 

*  Your  sentiments,"  rejoined  Salamis,  "  are  truly  ruaguaui 


520  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

mou?;  your  answer  is  worthy  of  a  hero;  but  yju  sboulj  al&l 
judge  as  a  king.  Vengeance  ought  always  to  pursue  cnrnes, 
and  the  guilty  are  not  proper  objects  of  mercy.  But  aftei 
their  infamous  treachery  to  you,  what  wonder  is  it  that  then 
cowardice  has  been  the  chief  cause  of  all  the  disorders  which 
have  desolated  our  tribe;  for  not  one  of  them  had  courage 
enough  to  face  an  enemy. 

u  They  have  oppressed  my  people  with  every  species  of  in- 
justice. The  crimes  they  have  committed  against  you  and 
Against  myself  are  so  enormous,  that  you  expose  the  whole 
tribe  to  danger  in  suffering  them  to  live.  Besides,  as  you  are 
now  to  discover  yourself,  their  villany  must  come  to  light,  and 
public  justice  will  demand  their  punishment.  I  might  add,  did 
I  not  know  that  you  were  superior  to  such  fears,  that  they 
would  still  be  dangerous  enemies." 

Habib  yielded  to  these  reasons  ;  and  entreated  his  father  to 
acquaint  him  with  the  particulars  of  that  unhappy  revolution 
in  Arabia,  which  H  Haboul  had  mentioned  to  him  only  in  gen- 
eral ;  and  of  which  the  sad  effects  were  too  visible  on  the  face 
of  the  country. 

"  O  my  son,"  resumed  the  virtuous  emir,  "  I  call  on  you  to 
execute  vengeance  on  wretches  whose  existence  is  a  disgrace 
to  humanity  ;  and  while  I  excite  you  to  repress  your  generous 
feelings,  that  you  may  secure  the  welfare  of  a  people  over 
whom  you  may  hereafter  bear  rule,  it  is  a  task  truly  painful  to 
set  before  your  eyes  the  unpleasing  picture  which  must  banish, 
for  the  time,  those  sentiments  of  universal  benevolence  which 
ihould  always  inspire  the  heart  of  a  true  mussulman. 

"  When  the  Arabians  saw  me  deprived  of  sight,  when  they 
loald  no  longer  hope  to  triumph  by  my  arms,  nor  share  with 
me  in  my  conquests,  they  regarded  me  as  an  outcast  unworthy 
of  life.  The  emirs,  that  I  had  appointed  in  my  provinces,  for- 
got that  they  owed  their  elevation  to  me.  They  all  deserted 
their  allegiance.  They  quarrelled  among  themselves,  nof 
would  they  even  listen  to  my  counsels. 

"  By  my  conduct  and  military  skill  they  had  subdued  th« 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  frfl 

formidable  tribe  of  Kleb,  who  were  infidels,  worshippers  of  tut 
ma  and  the  stars.  We  were  obliged  to  reduce  them  to  servi- 
tude by  imposing  heavy  contributions,  which  rendered  them  im- 
patient of  the  yoke. 

"  A  warrior  started  up  among  them  named  Zir ,  a  man  of 
enormous  stature  and  extraordinary  strength ;  he  was  naturally 
ambitious,  enterprising  and  brave,  but  quarrelsome  and  crueL 

"  Zir  had  excited  his  brethren  to  revolt ;  they  flew  to  arma  j 
and  whilo  the  emirs  were  disputing  with  each  other  about  the 
vain  honor  of  command,  they  were  routed,  their  forces  dis- 
persed, and  their  flocks  driven  off.  The  few  that  were  not  en 
tirely  subjected  by  him  are  now  wandering  in  the  neighboring 
deserts. 

"  Thus  freed  from  every  enemy  whose  force  he  had  reason 
to  fear,  the  terrible  Zir  advanced  to  my  camp,  to  accomplish 
the  most  important  part  of  his  project. 

"  The  tribe  of  Benihelal,  who  rendered  such  important  ser- 
vices to  our  holy  prophet,  was,  above  all  the  others,  odious  in 
the  eyes  of  the  infidels.  Zir  was  ambitious  of  subjecting  them 
to  the  same  degree  of  slavery  from  which  he  had  delivered  hia 
own  people  ;  or  even,  if  he  could,  of  cutting  them  off,  root  and 
branch,  from  the  face  of  the  earth. 

"The  favorable  situation  of  our  camp,  between  two  steep 
hills,  the  exact  discipline  which  I  have  enjoined,  and  the  means 
I  have  suggested  of  repelling  attacks  and  avoiding  surprise, 
have  hitherto  prevented  my  defeat;  but  we  are  daily  losing 
ground,  and  the  few  cattle  still  remaining  with  us,  can  scarcely 
find  pasturage  sufficient  for  their  support. 

"  Had  you  not,  my  dear  son,  arrived  so  seasonably ;  had  not 
Heaven  been  pleased  to  restore  my  sight,  no  other  propped 
was  before  us  than  death,  or  the  most  humiliating  slaveiy. 

"  Though  the  enemy,  from  a  knowledge  of  our  position,  have 
ceased  to  attempt  to  force  our  lines,  yet  they  daily  present 
themselves  at  our  barriers,  and  exultingly  reproach  our  warriors 
with  cowardice.  None  of  them  have  courage  to  resent  thosa 

44* 


622  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

cruel  insulbj :  and  one  might  imagine  that  the  whote  tribe  erf 
Benihelal  was  reduced  to  women  and  infants." 

This  recital  kindled  a  flame  in  the  breast  of  Habib.  Hii 
father  forsaken  —  his  tribe  dishonored,  —  these  were  ideas  al- 
together insupportable  ;  —  but  above  all,  the  ungenerous  advan- 
tage which  Zir  had  taken  of  his  father's  weakness,  filled  his 
Boul  with  indignation  and  fury. 

** O  !  my  father ! "  cried  he ;  "I  hope  before  to-morrow*! 
dawn  to  begin  our  vengeance  ! 

"  Under  these  tiger-skins,  which  perhaps  you  have  not  yet 
observed,  are  concealed  some  pieces  of  armor  of  no  ordinary 
kind,  which  were  given  me  by  II  Haboul,  when  I  last  visited 
Caucasus.  Your  groom  shall  prepare  me  a  war-horse.  I  will 
fly  to  the  barrier  —  there  to  await  the  insolent  bravadoes  of  our 
enemies,  and  give  them  a  proper  reception. 

"  If  the  enemy  does  not  appear,  I  will  rush  on  to  the  tents 
of  Zir,  and  dare  him  to  the  combat." 

*  And  where  shall  Salamis  be,"  cried  the  generous  old  war- 
rior, "  if  he  fails  to  accompany  his  son  in  so  glorious  an  enter- 
prise ?  Here  are  two  suits  of  armor  under  the  tiger-skins.  I 
pray  thee  tell  me,  was  this  intended  for  your  wife,  or  me  ? 
What  Arab  is  able  to  bear  these  arms,  or  even  to  lift  this 
lance?" 

Having  said  this,  he  took  it  up  and  brandished  it  in  the  air 
in  a  terrible  manner.  While  he  wielded  the  enormous  lance. 
it  looked,  in  his  grasp,  like  a  reed  in  the  hand  of  a  child.  "  0 
Mohammed  !  "  exlaimed  he,  u  thou  hast  restored  two  chiefs  to 
thy  tribe  ;  restore,  also,  to  the  people,  their  courage  and  theii 
strength ! " 

Amirala  and  Dorathil-goase,  far  from  being  alarmed  for  th« 
*afety  of  their  husbands,  were  delighted  to  see  them  assist  each 
other  in  adjusting  their  armor,  and  to  observe  the  graceful 
manner  in  which  they,  by  turns,  tried  the  weight  and  temper 
tf  their  weapons. 

When  they  were  completely  armed,  they  embraced  :  "  Thou 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  528 

wt  my  son!  '  said  Salamis;  "I  am  thy  fatker*     To-day  w€ 
are  brothers  and  rivals  in  the  field  of  honor. 

"  Pity  it  is  we  have  none  to  contend  with  but  £  laves !  Let 
us,  however,  take  comfort ;  we  fight  for  the  great  prophet,  and 
pur  glory  is  connected  with  his." 

Salamis  then  called  his  groom.  "  Prepare  for  us,"  said  he, 
two  horses  of  the  noblest  breed ;  let  them  be  caparisoned  in 
these  trappings,  and  conduct  them  to  your  tent.  Keep  them 
to  readiness  till  day-break,  when  we  shall  mount. 

<fc  God  has  been  pleased  to  restore  my  strength,  as  you  see, 
vJOgether  with  my  sight. 

"  To-morrow  my  son  and  I  go  to  receive  the  challenge  of 
the  rebel  knights  from  the  army  of  Zir. 

"  When  we  set  out  from  your  tent,  you  will  follow  at  a  small 
distance.  Yoa  may  answer  to  those  in  the  camp,  who  inquire 
who  we  are,  thai  these  are  two  strangers,  knights,  who  come  to 
offer  their  services  to  Salamis." 

The  groom  retired  to  do  as  he  had  been  commanded ;  and 
the  darkness-  of  the  night  enabled  him  to  execute  his  orders 
without  being  perceived. 

The  guards  who  kept  the  passages  to  the  emir's  tents,  saw 
the  groom  enter  without  suspicion  ;  and  as  they  knew  him  to  be 
the  emir's  servant,  suffered  him  to  take  from  thence  two  horses 
without  the  least  disturbance. 

At  ofay-break  the  two  warriors,  armed  cap-a-pie,  after  taking 
the  most  affectionate  leave  of  their  spouses,  went  out  unob- 
served. They  came  to  the  groom's  tent,  mounted  their  horses, 
and  rode  up  to  the  barriers  to  wait  the  approach  of  Zir's  war- 
riors, who  came  there  daily  to  renew  their  insults. 

Nor  had  they  long  to  wait.  Six  knights,  in  complete  armor, 
soon  made  their  appearance ;  and,  followed  by  a  small  party 
of  their  attendants,  advanced  towards  the  barriers  of  the  camp. 
One  of  them  alighted,  and  thus  addressed  the  guard  who  kepi 
that  post : — 

"  PeopJ  e  of  Arabia :  Are  you  mad  ?  Would  you  remain  in- 
gloriously  penned  up  like  your  cattle,  on  the  last  of  which  yof 


624  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

now  feed  ?  Would  you  suffer  famine  and  death  for  the  safctj 
of  a  poor  blind  man  ?  Our  chains  are  honorable,  and  are  des- 
tined to  be  worn  by  the  bravest  people  of  the  earth.  Submit, 
then,  to  the  common  lot  of  the  nations  conquered  by  our  arms* 
You  shall  be  permitted  to  become  a  footstool  to  the  throne  of 
the  mighty  emir  Zir,  our  glorious  sovereign.  Leave,  then,  for 
shame,  this  feeble  old  man,  who  can  only  share  with  you  hii 
disgrace  and  imbecility.  You  shall  even  be  allowed  to  mij 
with  our  tribe,  and  there  forget  the  ignominy  of  your  owa 
Why  not  forsake  a  prince  abandoned  by  Heaven,  who  has  not, 
among  his  friends,  one  knight  bold  enough  to  face  the  weakest 
of  us  ?  " 

"  Thou  liest,  vile  slave  of  a  rebel  slave  ! "  cried  Habib,  who 
had  suddenly  started  from  behind  the  palisade.  He  then  struck 
the  visor  of  his  casque  with  one  of  his  gauntlets,  as  a  signal 
of  defiance. 

"  I  here  defy  thee,"  said  Habib,  "  and  challenge  thee  to  en- 
gage a  knight  of  the  great  Salamis." 

In  the  mean  time,  the  valiant  husband  of  Dorathil-guase 
overleaped  the  barrier,  and  came  up  with  his  adversary  before 
he  had  time  to  remount  his  horse,  or  lay  hold  of  his  shield. 

Habib  threw  away  his,  disdaining  the  least  advantage  of  that 
sort,  and  the  fight  began.  But  the  victory  was  soon  decided  in 
favor  of  the  son  of  Salamis.  Habib  scarcely  struck  a  blow 
that  did  not  pierce  the  armor  of  his  antagonist,  and  he  fell 
dead  at  his  feet,  before  the  other  knights  of  the  tribe  of  Kleb 
could  advance  to  assist  their  companion  in  arms. 

He  who  first  came  up,  forgetting  the  laws  of  war  and  of 
honor,  tried  to  overthrow  Habib  by  rushing  on  him  with  hit 
horse.  The  brave  son  of  Salamis  avoided  the  shock,  and  with 
A  mortal  blow  smote  his  adversary  to  the  ground. 

Salamis,  who  had  just  passed  the  barrier,  met  the  third 
knight,  and  despatched  him.  Habib,  who  had  now  taken  hia 
horse,  joined  his  father,  and  both  fell  upon  the  three  remaining 
warriors  of  the  tribe  of  Kleb. 

These  knights  would  have  sought  safety  in  flight,  had  no! 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  521 

the  shame  of  being  seen  by  their  attendants  restrained  them 
Fear,  however,  had  seized  their  hearts ;  they  suffered  .hen* 
selves  to  be  disarmed,  and  the  fate  of  their  companions  com* 
pleted  their  terror. 

Salamis  and  his  son  returned  to  the  camp.  Every  one,  wha 
bore  t^e  title  of  knight  in  the  tribe  of  Benihelal,  came  about 
them  half-armed.  Joy,  mixed  with  suspicion  and  shame,  ap- 
peared in  their  faces.  They  asked,  "  Who  can  they  be  ?  From 
whence  are  those  wonderful  strangers  who  have  displayed  such 
intrepidity  against  our  enemies,  —  who  have  so  easily  tri- 
umphed in  the.  unequal  contest  of  two  against  six  ?  " 

The  two  knights  did  not  remove  the  visors  of  their  casques. 
They  answered  those  who  praised  their  valor,  only  by  a  grace- 
ful inclination  of  the  head.  They  observed  a  profound  silence, 
and  the  groom  who  spoke  for  them,  told  the  people  that  they 
were  two  noble  and  valiant  strangers,  who  were  come  to  offer 
their  services  to  the  emir ;  and  that  they  had  requested  to  be 
conducted  to  his  tent,  that  they  might  be  introduced  to  him. 

The  two  heroes  again  mounted  their  steeds,  and  proceeded 
to  the  tent  of  Salamis.  The  groom  led  the  way,  went  on  be- 
fore them  as  if  to  announce  .their  arrival,  and,  afterwards,  in- 
troduced them  with  a  mysterious  air. 

They  were  received  with  open  arms  by  Amirala  and  Dora- 
thil-goase.  The  steel,  in  which  they  were  clad,  seemed  to 
yield  and  become  soft  in  the  tender  embrace. 

A  victorious  knight  is  an  object  of  the  highest  delight  to  hig 
lady.  Can  any  title  be  more  pleasing,  even  amidst  the  most 
endearing  caresses  ?  —  these  two  happy  pairs,  indulging  their 
mutual  fondness  without  restraint,  —  for  love,  tempered  with 
rirtue,  knows  no  bounds,  and  can  never  arrive  at  excess. 

The  heroes  w£re  assisted  in  putting  off  their  arms  by  their 
fair  spouses  ;  who,  with  their  own  hands,  served  them  with  a 
repast.  Salamis  was  informed  that  his  tent  was  surrounded 
by  a  multitude  of  inquisitive  people,  of  all  ranks.  He  gav« 
orders  to  tell  them,  that,  having  passed  the  night  uneasily,  h* 
bad  t.eed  of  repose.  At  the  same  time,  he  commanded  p*o- 


526  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

clamation  to  be  made  in  the  camp,  that  he  would  hold  a  great 
council  of  all  his  knights  immediately  after  mid-day  prayers. 

The  rumor  had  been  spread  that  a  physician  had  arrived, 
who  was  to  operate  on  the  emir's  eyes  ;  but  both  he  and  hia 
slave  had  disappeared.  It  was  believed  by  some  that  the  emir, 
having  no  confidence  in  the  operation  proposed,  had  abruptly 
I  tut  away  the  person  who  came  to  attempt  it. 

Others  again,  asked  when,  and  in  what  manner,  two  knights 
in  complete  armor  could  have  been  introduced  to  a  fortified 
camp,  and  penetrate  to  the  emir's  tent,  without  being  seen  by 
the  guards  or  any  other  person  ? 

While  people  were  perplexing  themselves  with  conjectures 
on  these  subjects,  Salamis,  Amirala,  Habib,  and  Dorathil-goase 
retired  to  refresh  themselves,  after  so  much  fatigue,  with  a 
short  repose.  All  who  were  to  be  present  at  the  council  pre- 
pared to  hear  something  new  and  wonderful,  whatever  it  might 
be,  and  none  failed  to  attend  exactly  at  the  hour  appointed. 

Salamis  received  his  knights,  seated  on  a  sofa,  —  leaning  his 
forehead  on  his  hand  that  they  might  not  remark  the  new  lustre 
which  reanimated  his  countenance. 

When  the  assembly  was  full,  and  every  one  had  taken  his 
place,  he  thus  addressed  them :  "  Emirs  and  knights,  who  were 
the  glory  of  the  tribe  of  Benihelal,  before  it  incurred  the 
'wrath  of  the  great  prophet,  I  scarce  could  have  flattered  my- 
self with  the  hope  of  discovering  the  cause  of  our  punishment, 
oor  of  seeing  an  end  to  the  progress  of  misfortune. 

*  Placing  my  hope  in  God  alone,  I  was  always  resigned  to 
his  will ;  and  he  has  at  last  been  pleased  to  reveal  to  me  the 
dreadful  crimes  of  which  some  brethren  of  our  tribe  have  been 
guilty.  These  have  provoked  Heaven,  and  drawn  down  its 
rengeance  on  our  heads. 

"O  Emirs !  and  more  especially  ye  Arabian  knights  who  now 

hear  me  !  You  have  among  you  some  base  and  false  hearts,  — • 

souls  stained  with  the  blackest  treasons,  and  the  most  horrid 

crimes ! 

."  As  soon  as  their  enormities  were  committed,  Mohammed 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  5Sfl 

withdrew  his  favor.  The  heavens  were  reversed,  and  everj 
Itar  was  against  us.  We  became  a  prey  to  the  infidels. 

"  Myself,  being  your  chief,  though  innocent,  was  struck  with 
blindness,  and  found  my  power  wrested  from  me,  and  my 
counsels  despised.  Even  your  natural  courage  has  forsaken 
four  hearts,  and  you  can  no  longer  face  an  enemy.  You  are 
Become  the  subject  of  their  raillery.  Those  who  once  exulted 
in  their  strength  have  felt  their  knees  tremble,  and  have  crept 
behind  their  entrenchments. 

"  The  tribes  who  were  subjected  to  me  have  thrown  off  their 
allegiance;  without,  however,  escaping  the  disasters  which 
guilt  has  brought  on  the  tents  of  the  Arabs.  Their  enemies, 
as  weak  as  ourselves,  but  still  more  imprudent,  have,  by  their 
internal  divisions,  suffered  their  brethren  to  sink  under  the 
sword  of  their  rebel  slaves  ;  and  those  who  have  not  attempted 
to  gain  advantages  by  rebellion,  have  fled  to  the  inhospitable 
deserts  of  this  country,  there  to  seek  a  miserable  and  inglorious 
asylum  ! 

"  Our  misfortunes,  arrived  almost  at  the  highest  pitch,  have, 
at  last,  excited  the  compassion  of  Heaven ;  and  divine  justice 
now  only  demands  from  us  the  punishment  of  those  crimes 
for  which  it  had,  with  regret,  pursued  the  innocent  with  the 
guilty,  in  order  that  a  more  severe  chastisement  may  be  in- 
flicted on  the  camp  of  the  enemy. 

"  Consent,  then,  instantly  to  deliver  up  to  justice  those  who 
are  found  worthy  of  punishment,  —  those  wretches  who  have 
drawn  down  the  vengeance  of  Heaven  on  the  faithful  Mussul- 
men  of  Arabia ! " 

The  emir  had  pronounced  this  speech  with  a  tone  of  firm- 
ness and  authority,  that  his  audience  could  scarce  have  expect- 
ed from  one  in  -the  humiliating  situation  in  which  they  still 
supposed  him.  They  gazed  on  each  other  in  silent  astonish- 
ment. Some  looked  down,  fixing  their  eyes  on  the  earth ;  but 
the  unanimous  voice  of  the  assembly  seemed  to  declare,  that 
rfhe  horrid  crimes  which  had  provoked  the  wrath  of  Heaveo 
against  their  tribe,  should  be  expiated  by  the  death  vi  the 
gritty. 


528  ARABIAN    NI.GHTS' 

"  Ai«  proofs  wanted!"  said  the  emir,  while  Habib  steppe*' 
from  behind  a  curtain  where  he  stood  concealed :  u  Come  forth, 
my  son,  convict  these  nineteen  knights  who  stand  before  us, 
of  the  false  report  they  made  of  your  death,  both  to  mya3l£i 
and  to  the  whole  tribe/' 

Then  turning  to  the  criminals :  "  Base  and  cruel  impostors, 
can  you  deny,  that  I  entrusted  you  in  preference  to  others, 
with  the  care  and  protection  of  your  young  prince ;  that  you, 
adding  treachery  to  cowardice,  resolved  to  abandon  him !  and 
that  to  escape  my  vengeance,  you  left  him  in  his  sleep,  desti- 
tute of  every  resource,  and  even  of  his  arms,  —  exposed  to 
hunger  and  thirst,  to  the  fury  of  the  elements,  and  the  rage  of 
wild  beasts  ?  " 

The  sight  of  Habib  was  like  a  stroke  of  thunder  to  the  guilty 
knights.  Salamis  thus  proceeded : 

"  Knights  of  the  tribe  of  Benihelal !  to  you  it  belongs  to 
pronounce  the  sentence,  and  order  the  execution  of  the  crimi- 
nals. To  you  it  belongs  to  avenge  the  children  of  Moham- 
med, on  those  who  have  brought  dishonor  on  his  favorite  tribe, 
and  the  scourge  of  divine  justice  on  the  whole  people." 

The  criminals  were  mute,  nor  could  they  offer  a  word  in 
their  own  defence.  They  were  surrounded,  bound,  and  their 
armor  torn  off  piece  by  piece ;  being  immediately  delivered 
over  to  the  executioners,  they  were  led  out  of  the  camp,  their 
heads  struck  off  with  a  sabre,  and  their  bodies  left  exposed  a? 
a  prey  to  the  ravenous  beasts. 

Rabir  had  been  saved  from  the  infamy  of  this  punishment 
by  his  death,  which  happened  soon  after  his  return.  The 
horror  of  having  consented  to  such  an  enormity  had  hastened 
his  end,  which  might  otherwise  have  been  regarded  as  prema- 
ture. 

Having  thus  done  justice  to  their  royal  chiefs,  the  knighta 
made  haste  to  testify  their  joy  at  the  return  of  Habib. 

While  Salamis  spoke  to  them,  the  importance  of  his  dis- 
course so  entirely  captivated  their  attention,  that  they  had  not 
remarked  the  sparkling  orbs  which  now  re-animated  his  lookfr 


RNTFF 1 1  .'NMENTS.  529 

On  their  reborn,  Sa-lamis  addressed  them  one  aftei  another, 
«riJ&  graceful  condescension ;  and  all  remarked  with  oston;sh- 
rntut  the  return  of  his  sight.  "  Have  you  not  heard,"  said  the 
omir,  "  of  the  physician  who  was  last  night  introduced  to  me, 
and  whose  secret  remedy  has,  by  tlie  grace  of  God  and  his 
proplet,  proved  effectual  ?  Nor  is  this  the  only  favor  which 
Heaven  has  bestowed  on  us. 

u  Tin,  victory  which  my  son  and  I  obtained  this  morning,  is 
the  pledge  of  future  glory.  Brave  Arabians!  the  stain  of 
guilt  is  no  longer  upon  you:  resume  your  wonted  strength 
and  militaij  ardor;  prepare  to  attack  the  tents  of  Zir.  I  ask 
none  to  follow  me  but  my  valiant  knights ;  my  other  warriors 
may  remain  to  protect  our  flocks  in  the  rich  pastures  1  shall 
point  out.  A  sufficient  guard  will  also  be  left  in  the  camp. 

a  Let  all  our  subject  tribei  who  are  wandering  in  the  desert, 
be  informed,  that,  oy  to-morrow,  terror  shall  reign  in  the  tents 
of  our  enemies,  and  <£J*JP  shall  be  banished  from  the  breast  of 
all  those  who  repaii  Co  the  standard  of  Salamis. 

ft  While  we  are  collecting  a  body  of  forces,  whose  appear- 
ance may  be  sufficiei/Uy  formidable  to  intimidate  the  enemy, 
and  thus  save  us  the  pain  of  entering  upon  a  bloody  war,  I 
hope  you,  my  dear  friends,  and  all  the  remaining  people  of 
Arabia,  who  serve  the  true  God,  will  join  me,  on  this  just 
occasion  in  thanking  Heaven  for  its  favors. 

*  The  return  of  Habib,  and  the  recovery  of  my  sight,  are 
not,  however,  the  only  subjects  of  my  happiness.  The  queen 
of  the  seven  seas  at  the  extremity  of  the  east,  the  fair  Dorathil- 
goase,  the  wife  whom  the  stars  had  destined  to  my  son,  — 
shft  herself  is  the  messenger  of  Heaven  sent  to  restore  the 
strength  of  my  youth,  and  with  it  the  power  of  lifting  those 
eyes  to  Heaven  which  were  before  involved  in  darkness ! 

"  Let  this  news  be  proclaimed  in  every  country  where  the 
laws  of  the  Alcoran  are  obeyed,  that  all  people  may  give 
thanks  to  God  and  his  prophet. 

"  Let  days  of  thansgiving  be  appointed.     But  these  rel: 
gious  festivals  are  not  intended  for  the  indulgence  of  sensual 

45 


530  ARABIAN    NIGHTb 

appetites ;  it  is  the  soul  that  should  rejoice  at  the  return  oi 
those  blessings,  so  unexpected  and  so  wonderful. 

"  May  our  expressions  of  pious  gratitude,  and  our  shouts  of 
joy,  be  re-echoed  in  the  tents  of  Zir,  and  cause  the  hearts  oi 
our  enemies  to  quake  with  terror." 

The  ceremonies  of  the  thanksgiving  were  publicly  ani 
unanimously  celebrated  in  the  camp  of  Salamis,  with  all  the 
solemnity  and  pomp  which  the  present  circumstances  per 
mitted. 

Dorathil-goase  received  the  blessing  and  the  homage  of  the 
whole  tribe  of  Benihelal,  and  the  camp  resounded  with  the 
acclamations  of  joy,  which  were  intermingled  with  the  noise 
occasioned  by  the  general  festival. 

The  camp  of  Salamis  now  wore  the  appearance  of  the  high- 
est prosperity.  The  happy  news  spread  abroad,  and  attracted 
many  knights  of  the  other  tribes,  who  had  been  separated  from 
their  prince  during  his  misfortunes. 

Salamis  received  them  graciously,  and  made  Habib  and  his 
spouse  also  show  them  every  mark  of  kindness.  He  antici- 
pated the  excuses,  and  saved  them  the  confusion  of  offering  an 
apology  for  their  conduct  by  referring  all  that  had  happened  to 
the  chastisement  of  Heaven.  In  fifteen  days  the  emir  saw  him 
self  surrounded  with  a  respectable  and  numerous  train  of 
knights,  glowing  with  desire  to  repair,  by  feats  of  arms,  tht 
shame  of  defection  on  the  one  hand,  and  the  disgrace  of  in- 
action on  the  other. 

Zir  was  not  ignorant  of  this  revolution.  The  defeat  of  hia 
six  warriors  had  made  him  expect  such  a  piece  of  news.  Three 
of  them  fell  in  the  field  of  battle ;  three  were  prisoners  in  the 
camp  of  Salamis.  The  latter  had  communicated  to  their  tribfc 
the  news,  which  had  reached  them  even  in  their  prison.  Zil 
was  struck  with  astonishment  at  hearing  of  the  sudden  cue  cf 
Salamis,  and  the  return  of  Habib  with  the  fair  queen,  whom 
he  had  married. 

He  now  understood  who  the  two  strangers  were,  who  had 
fought  against  his  six  knights ;  and  he  regretted  that  he  had 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  53i 

flot  himself  appeared  before  the  enemy's  lines,  that  ho  niighi 
have  sustained  the  shock  where  his  warriors  wore  so  unequal 
to  the  contest. 

His  confidense  in  his  own  strength  made  him  believe  that  ho 
would  have  come  off  victorious.  But  he  resolved  to  wipe  oif 
the  dishonor  which  that  action  had  cast  on  his  arms,  by  chal 
lenging  Salamis  to  single  combat,  in  the  face  of  his  own  camp. 

Yemana,  his  sister,  a  princess  distinguished  for  good  sense 
*ad  beauty,  though  she  believed  her  brother's  strength  and 
courage  to  be  more  than  human,  yet  dissuaded  him  from  the 
rash  attempt. 

"  My  brother,"  said  she,  "  you  will  perhaps  regard  my  opinion 
as  influenced  by  principles  which  you  are  not  willing  to  admit. 
How  formidable  soever  his  strength  may  be,  who  has  long  been 
called  the  great  Salamis,  were  I  not  to  attribute  anything  to 
fortune,  I  would  consider  you  as  at  least  his  equal  match ;  but 
I  attribute  much  to  the  aspect  of  the  stars. 

"  Their  malign  influence  has  already  been  shed  on  the  tribe 
of  Benihelal.  That  tribe,  and  all  the  people  subject  to  it,  have 
been  delivered  into  your  hand,  and  you  have  hitherto  tri- 
umphed. 

"  But,  my  dear  brother,  the  heavens  change,  and  the  influ- 
ence of  the  stars  may  also  change. 

"  It  is  a  maxim  universally  admitted,  that  misfortunes  never 
come  singly.  We  also  reckon  upon  a  run  of  good  luck;  but 
we  never  think  of  tracing  the  matter  to  its  first  source. 

"  Consider,  then,  the  happy  and  even  miraculous  events 
which  have  already  favored  your  enemies;  and  consult  the 
surest  means,  according  to  the  course  of  your  destiny,  and  with- 
out taking  your  glory  into  the  account,  how  you  may  assure 
your  personal  safety,  on  which  the  security  of  the  whole  tribe 
of  Kleb  absolutely  depends." 

"  It  will  be  time  enough  to  think  of  all  this,  sister,"  answered 
Zir,  "  after  I  have  conquered  Salamis.  His  power  is  less  odious 
to  me  than  his  glory.  I  have  seen  it  overthrown,  but  it  again 
springs  up  from  its  ruins.  He  has  set  up  his  son,  too,  as  a  frest 
obstacle  to  my  reputation. 


53 2,  ARiLbiAN    NIGHTS' 

"  All  Af  ibia  is  too  narrow  to  satisfy  my  ambition ;  how  thtaa 
could  1  bear  two  rivals  ?  Your  stars,  sister,  may  do  as  they 
please ;  but  if  they  are  against  me,  I  shall  make  them  become 
pale  with  fear  for  the  champions  they  prefer  before  me." 

While  Yemana  and  her  brother  held  this  discourse,  Salamia, 
at  the  head  of  his  vassals,  advanced  towards  the  tents  of  the 
tribe  of  Kleb,  which  were  only  about  three  leagues  from  hifl 
camp. 

This  was  but  a  short  march ;  and  Zir  being  informed  of 
their  approach,  led  out  an  equal  number  of  warriors.  The  two 
armies  now  faced  each  other  at  a  little  more  than  a  bow-shot 
distance. 

The  proud  and  gigantic  Zir,  mounted  on  a  high-mettled 
charger,  insultingly  pranced  along  the  front  of  his  squadrons. 
Salamis  was  advancing  to  challenge  him  to  single  combat. 
u  No,  my  father,  no ! "  cried  the  youthful  warrior ;  "  Heaven 
has  preserved  me,  and  sent  me  here  to  take  vengeance  on  your 
enemies." 

"  You  are  too  young,  my  Habib,  answered  the  tender  father ; 
u  your  limbs  have  not  yet  acquired  a  sufficient  degree  of  strength 
to  sustain  a -contest  with  a  giant." 

"  Ah ! "  said  Dorathil-goase,  "  do  not  doubt  that  the  hero  who 
Jw  sprung  from  you  will  show  himself  worthy  of  his  high 
descent.  Be  contented  with  the  glory  you  have  already  ac- 
quired, and  intrust  your  quarrel  to  my  Habib  ;  you  shall  soon 
*ee  that  no  giant  is  a  match  for  him." 

The  joint  entreaties  of  Habib,  Amirala,  and  Dorathil-goase, 
*t  last  made  the  brave  emir  yield  to  his  son  the  honor  of  giving 
the  challenge. 

Habib  laid  aside  the  Parthian  lance,  and  took  one  of  (lie 
flsual  form  in  Arabia,  that  he  might  be  on  an  equal  footing 
irith  his  antagonist.  He  advanced  with  his  visor  lifted  up,  and 
presenting  himself  gracefully  on  his  noble  steed,  gave  the  sig- 
aal  of  defiance. 

Zir  came  up,  and  assuming  a  tone  of  irony,  "  How  sweet," 
laid  he,  '  is  the  silver  tone  of  thy  voice.  Pray,  art  thou  not  9 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  533 

woman  f  "     "  You  shall  know  me,  by  and  by,  for  what  I  am, 
answered  Habib,  fiercely. 

"  Ha!  I  remember  you,  my  pretty  baby ;  I  have  seen  you 
dandled  on  Amirala's  knees.  How  handsome  you  are  !  Your 
father,  sure,  did  not  send  you  to  fight  with  me  !  He  knows  that 
I  love  youth.  Go,  tell  him  that  I  wait  for  him,  —  and  that  I 
will  contend  with  none  but  men." 

"  My  father,"  replied  Habib,  "  scorns  to  fight  with  his  rebel 
slave.  I  have  learned,  even  in  my  mother's  arms,  to  despise 
insolence." 

"  But,  young  man,  I  shall  now  be  forced  to  bestow  on  your 
mother  a  mourning  garb,  which  she  need  not  hope  to  quit  a 
eccond  time.  Go,  I  say,  fetch  me  your  father.  However  vain 
he  may  be  of  his  former  victories,  would  not  the  trophy  of  my 
arms,  if  he  should  triumph  over  me,  be  a  noble  ornament  dis- 
played upon  his  tent  ?  " 

lf  I  have  already  told  thee,  slave,  that  my  father  will  not  do 
thee  the  honor  to  accept  thy  challenge.  Thirty  times  hast  thou 
followed  him  to  battle,  singing  his  victories  over  warriors  more 
valiant  than  thyself;  nor  could  thy  defeat  add  anything  to  his 
glory.  Thou  shalt  not  have  the  trouble  of  sending  a  mourning 
dress  to  my  mother ;  nor  can  I  do  the  like  to  yours  ;  it  is  weL1 
known  that  you  are  even  ignorant  of  her  name  —  but  I  here 
promise  to  present  a  full  suit  to  your  sister,  Yemana." 

"  Rash  fooi :  "  cried  Zir,  pushing  on  his  horse  ;  "  I  have  been 
led  to  battle,  singing  the  victories  of  your  father,  because  the 
tribe  of  Kleb  were  slaves,  and  slaves  must  sing  anything, 
Your  mother,  and  the  adventurer-queen  you  have  brought 
from  the  deserts  shall  sing  mine  to-morrow.  They  shall  weai 
my  chains,  and  be  subject  to  my  will,  or  their  blood  shall  stain 
the  earth,  or  be  mingled  with  thine  and  thy  father's."  Having 
said  this,  he  threw  his  lance  with  vast  force  against  Habib. 

The  young  warrior  observed  its  direction,  and  by  a  skilful 
and  sudden  motion  of  his  body,  evaded  the  blow.  The  lane* 
passed  over  him,  and  fell,  at  the  distance  of  thirty  paces. 

Hah'b,  lifting  up  his  lance,  presented  it  to  the  throat  of  Zif 
45* 


534  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

"  Thou  hast  dared,"  said  he,  "  to  pronounce  the  name  of  mj 
mother  and  my  spouse  in  terms  of  insult,  like  a  mean  coward 
Thou  hast  a  sister  who  is  very  weak ;  she  will  be  more  so  aftet 
thy  death,  and  shall  be  the  more  entitled  to  my  compassion." 
Then  gently  tapping  upon  his  shoulder  with  the  point  of  the 
lance;  "  Go,"  said  he,  "  take  up  your  weapon,  where  your 
awkwardness  has  made  you  throw  it.  Armed,  I  despise  thee ! 
unarmed,  thou  art  an  object  of  ridicule  ! "  Zir,  distracted  with 
rage,  flew  to  seize  the  lance,  and  returning  to  the  attack,  again 
threw  it  against  Habib,  with  all  the  force  that  fury  could  add 
to  an  arm  that  was  thought  irresistible. 

Habib,  by  the  most  dexterous  movement  imaginable,  with- 
drew his  body  from  the  stroke,  by  passing  his  leg  under  the 
belly  of  his  horse.  The  weapon  glanced  along  within  halt  a 
foot  of  the  saddle,  and  its  point  pierced  the  trunk  of  a  tree  at 
some  distance. 

Habib  now  threw  down  his  own  lance ;  and  Zir  was  more 
than  ever  enraged  at  this  fresh  mark  of  contempt. 

He  drew  his  scimetar,  and  assailed  Habib  with  innumerable 
blows,  which  fell  on  every  part  of  his  armor  as  thick  as  hail. 

In  this  contest,  the  strength  of  the  combatants  might  be 
nearly  equal ;  but  in  skill  and  presence  of  mind  there  was  a 
great  disparity.  Every  stroke  given  by  Zir  was  foreseen  and 
warded  off;  but  those  of  his  antagonist  always  took  effect, and 
never  failed  to  carry  away  some  portion  of  Zir's  strong  armor. 
Many  passages  were  thus  opened  to  the  sword ;  and  while  the 
giant  lifted  his  arm  against  the  son  of  Salamis,  the  young  hero, 
with  a  reversed  blow,  struck  off  his  hand  by  the  wrist.  Zir  at- 
tempted to  save  himself  by  flight ;  but  a  second  stroke  laid  m> 
bead  at  the  feet  of  the  conqueror. 

Botn  the  camps,  and  even  the  women,  were  witnesses  to  the 
contest  between  Habib  and  the  gigantic  Zir.  The  knights  of 
both  parties  were  filled  with  the  highest  admiration  at  the  dis- 
course and  gallant  behavior  of  the  son  of  Salamis.  "  Whal 
generosity !  what  moderation ! "  cried  they.  "  So  much  activity 
grace  and  skill,  united  to  such  strength  and  valor,  must  surelj 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  58& 

But  though  there  could  be  only  one  opinion  as  U  tho  merit! 
if  the  combat,  its  consequences  to  the  opposite  parties,  wero 
very  different. 

Consternation  seized  the  tribe  of  Kleb ;  they  thought  them- 
selves vanquished  by  a  single  arm.  The  knighthood  returned 
to  their  camp,  that  they  might  withdraw  their  most  valuable 
effects  from  the  pillage,  which  they  regarded  as  the  inevitable 
Consequence  of  their  defeat. 

Already  did  the  people  disperse  in  small  parties,  consulting 
together  how  they  might  escape,  by  flight,  from  a  state  of 
slavery  more  dreadful  than  that  which  they  had  endeavored 
to  shake  off.  The  followers  of  Salamis,  on  the  other  hand,  ad- 
vanced in  good  order,  that  they  might  avail  themselves  of  the 
advantage  gained  by  the  son  of  their  emir,  and  the  disorder  of 
the  enemy. 

Habib,  confident  of  his  strength,  courage,  and  good  fortune, 
entered  the  camp  of  the  tribe  of  Kleb,  followed  by  a  few  war- 
riors, whom  none  ventured  to  oppose,  and  ordered  that  he 
should  be  conducted  to  the  tent  of  the  princess  of  Yemana. 

That  princess,  accompanied  by  fifty  guards  who  attended  her 
person,  had  viewed  the  combat  at  a  distance,  mounted  upon  a 
hodage,*  which  had  been  raised  higher  than  usual  on  the  back 
of  her  hetnacka. 

The  warriors  who  had  led  on  the  party  commanded  by  Sala- 
mis, came  up  to  their  young  sultan,  who  placed  them  about 
Yemana,  said  sent  others  to  prevent  pillage,  and  to  recover 
whatever  plunder  had  been  already  made  by  his  people.  At 
the  moment  Salamis  was  giving  orders  to  pursue  the  detached 
bands  of  the  tribes  of  Kleb,  he  was  amazed  to  see  the  people 
come  peaceably  and  range  themselves  under  their  tents. 

He  soon  learned  that  this  was  owing  to  the  prudent  conduct 


*  The  ladies  of  Arabia  commonly  ride  on  female  camels,  called  het- 
nacka.  The  carpets  that  cover  the  camels'  backs  are  rolled  intc  a  sort  of 
enshion,  on  which  the  lady  and  her  slave  are  seated.  This  ia  nametf 
Vofapc, 


536  ARABIAN   NIGHTS' 

of  his  son.  He  came  into  the  camp  accompanied  by  Amiralg 
and  Dorathil-goase,  and  was  shown  to  the  tents  of  Yemana. 

When  they  advanced,  the  princess  of  Kleb  arose  that  she 
might  present  herself  to  them  as  a  suppliant.  Habib  would 
not  suffer  her  to  kneel ;  but  thus  addressed  his  father :  — 

"  O  !  my  glorious  sovereign ! "  said  he,  "  I  have  promised 
your  clemency  to  Yemana,  princess  of  the  tribe  of  Kleb.  Shs 
possesses  every  great  quality  that  can  fit  her  for  the  throne 
Besides,  if  she  swerved  from  her  duty,  it  was  owing  to  hei 
brother,  for  she  never  took  part  against  us ;  and  she  has 
requested  to  be  reinstated  in  your  good  graces,  in  a  manner  so 
handsome,  so  worthy  of  herself,  that  I  have  promised  her 
favor  in  your  name,  in  that  of  my  mother,  and  of  the  charming 
Dorathil-goase." 

Confiding  in  what  his  son  had  said  in  favor  of  Yemana,  Sala- 
mis  assented  to  whatever  he  had  done  for  the  princess.  He 
knew  that  she  had  none  of  the  vices  of  her  brother ;  and  that 
she  was  even  willing  to  embrace  the  doctrines  of  the  Alcoran. 

"  Madam,"  said  he,  "  I  here  ratify  with  joy,  all  that  my  son 
has  done  for  you,  and,"  added  he,  "  you  appear  so  worthy,  that 
I  should  be  happy,  if  possible,  to  add  new  favors  to  those 
which  he  has  already  conferred  on  you."  At  the  same  time 
Amirala  and  Dorathil-goase  embraced  the  new  princess  of 
Kleb  with  unfeigned  affection. 

They  would  have  willingly  conducted  her  to  the  tents  of 
Benihelal,  there  to  console  her,  by  their  caresses,  for  the  losa 
of  a,  brother  who  was  so  dear  to  her ;  but  her  presence  was 
necessary  at  his  funeral,  which  was  celebrated  with  all  the 
ceremonies  of  mourning  usual  in  that  tribe,  and  likewise  for 
establishing  good  order  among  the  people,  of  whom  she  had 
aow  assumed  the  management. 

Habib,  that  nothing  might  be  wanting,  ordered  a  hundred 
Knights  to  wait  her  orders.  The  venerable  emir  now  returned 
to  the  tents  of  Benihelal,  with  his  family,  and  was  received 
with  songs  of  triumph. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  583 

The  praises  of  Habib  resounded  from  every  quarter,  and 
the  subject  of  the  song  was  his  victory  over  Zir. 

"  But,  good  people ! "  cried  Dorathil-goase,  "  what  has  my 
husband  done  ?  What  else  did  you  expect  from  the  son  of  th6 
great  Salamis?  You  mistake  the  object  of  your  praise. 
Delicious  fruit  is  pleasing  to  the  taste ;  but  it  is  the  tree  that 
bears  it,  which  merits  your  esteem  ! " 

For  ten  days  nothing  was  to  be  seen  in  the  tents  of  Benihe- 
lal  but  feasting  and  rejoicing.  The  most  distant  tribes  of  the 
Arabs,  who  had  fled  from  the  tyranny  of  Zir,  collected  around 
the  camp  of  their  ancient  emir ;  their  tents  are  pitched  near 
him,  and  he  again  sees  himself  at  the  head  of  his  sixty-six 
tribes,  his  strength  restored,  and  his  authority  more  firmly 
established  than  ever. 

After  the  ten  days'  festival,  Yemana,  attended  by  the  chiefs 
of  her  tribe,  came  to  pay  homage  to  her  sovereign.  She  still 
wore  her  mourning  dress,  which  greatly  improved  the  softness 
of  her  charms.  She  was  received  by  the  emir  and  Habib 
with  every  mark  of  respect  that  became  her  sex  and  quality. 
Amirala  and  Dorathil-goase  also  gave  her  a  kind  and  familiar 
welcome. 

Salamis  had  a  nephew,  the  son  of  his  brother,  called 
Saphey,  a  young  and  promising  warrior.  The  emir  resolved 
to  bestow  nis  hand  on  Yemana,  creating  him,  at  the  same  time 
emir  of  the  tribe  of  Bleb.  Yemana  accepted  this  new  mart 
of  favor  with  suitable  gratitude;  and  a  remission  of  theii 
tribute,  was  the  royal  present  at  the  nuptials. 

New  festivities  followed  this  happy  event,  which  effaced 
every  vestige  of  slavery  from  the  tribe  of  Kleb.  The  knights 
who  had  followed  their  princess  were  quite  astonished  at  • 
reception  so  gracious. 

u  Knights,"  said  their  new  sovereign,  "  it  is  thus  that  a 
feithful  Mussulman  takes  revenge  on  his  enemies.  From  thii 
day  let  the  people  be  less  disaffected  to  laws  which  are  produo* 
tive  of  so  many  worthy  actions.  Henceforth  let  the  tribe  of 
Kleb  renounce  their  ignorance  and  ferocity.  They  ought  no 


538  ARABIAN   NIGHTS* 

longer  to  admire  heroes  like  Zir,  whose  sole  merit  depends  on 
strength  and  violence ;  and  who  think  themselves  only  great, 
in  so  far  as  they  can  strike  terror."  After  the  departure  of 
Yemana  and  her  husband  to  their  camp,  Dorathil-goase  and 
Habib  felt  some  impatience  to  return  to  their  own  states,  to 
succor  the  people,  who  had  not  yet  recovered  from  the  terro* 
occasioned  by  the  tyranny  of  Abarikaff. 

Salamis  knew  too  well  the  duties  of  a  king  to  oppose  their 
intention,  or  require  the  sacrifice  of  their  people's  happinesi   . 
for  his  private  satisfaction. 

A  day  was  fixed  for  the  departure  of  Habib  and  his  spouse, 
it  was  agreed  that  they  should  return  to  the  little  retreat 
where  they  first  arrived,  and  go  from  thence,  secretly,  by  the 
game  means  of  conveyance  they  had  employed  in  coming 
thither. 

Salamis  and  Amirala  would  gladly  have  accompanied  them, 
that  they  might  enjoy  their  presence  as  long  as  possible  ;  but 
this  would  have  made  too  much  noise.  There  are  many  things 
of  which  the  people  should  be  kept  in  ignorance ;  and  their 
fondness  for  what  is  marvellous,  often  makes  them  forgetful  of 
their  duty. 

The  youthful  pair,  with  tears  in  their  eyes,  took  a  most 
affectionate  leave  of  the  worthy  old  emir  and  his  spouse. 
They  concerted  means  of  communicating  with  each  other,  so 
as  to  render  their  separation  the  more  supportable.  They 
mounted  a  camel,  and  being  conducted  by  the  confidential 
groom,  returned  to  the  retreat.  Next  morning,  before  day,  the 
roc  bore  them  through  the  air,  towards  the  heights  of 
Caucasus. 

Now  were  they  again  to  see  their  faithful  II  Haboul,  and  fill 
his  heart  with  joy,  by  a  recital  of  their  happy  adventures, 
Habib  went  instantly  to  replace  the  talisman  in  the  treasury 
tf  Solomon. 

At  the  entry  to  this  mysterious  cavern,  he  cast  his  eyes  on  a 
lueroglyphic  which  he  had  not  before  remarked.  It  attracted 
feii  attention  so  much,  that  he  fell  into  a  profound  meditation. 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  58$ 

*  These  are  emblematic  figures,"  said  he  to  himself.  "  Here  if 
the  pure  expanse  of  heaven,  brilliant  with  light.  An  eagle 
appears  to  rise  rapidly  in  her  flight,  almost  to  the  sun's  disk 
while  an  enormous  serpent,  creeping  over  the  rocks,  reaches 
the  nest  and  devours  the  eggs  of  the  noble  bird." 

Habib  returned  with  a  pensive  air  to  his  instructor,  and  told 
him  the  subject  of  his  reflections,  describing  what  he  had  seen. 

"  That  is  the  picture,"  said  H  Haboul,  "  but  what  is  th« 
moral  of  it  ?  "     "  Methinks  I  comprehend  it,"  said  Habib. 
.     "  By  aspiring  to  too  great  an  elevation,  we  are  in  danger  of 
being  flushed  with  prosperity,  and  of  losing  sight  of  our  true 
interests." 

"  Your  answer,"  said  II  Haboul,  "  is  worthy  of  my  old  pupil. 
None  pass  the  door  of  the  cavern  of  Solomon,  without  reaping 
some  instruction.  Pity  it  is  that  we  must  learn  those  maxims 
of  wisdom,  one  by  one,  and  not  all  at  once,  by  a  great  and 
comprehensive  grasp  of  thought ! " 

They  dedicated  two  days  to  the  enjoyments  of  friendship,  in 
the  company  of  the  venerable  keeper  of  the  prophet's  reposito- 
ries ;  the  roc  then  took  his  flight  to  the  White  Isle,  and  also  to 
the  Yellow  Isle,  where  the  exertions  of  the  old  genie  Ilbalhis, 
had,  in  some  measure,  restored  an  appearance  of  prosperity. 

The  royal  pair  next  found  themselves  in  the  little  court  of 
she  lady  of  the  beautiful  tresses  and  Dal-Ilsha.  Every  thing 
here  announced  peace  and  abundance.  The  two  daughters  of 
the  sea  had  been  conducted  hither ;  and  impatiently  expected 
the  return  of  the  hero  to  whom  they  had  so  obligingly  devoted 
their  services ;  especially  Hzaide,  who,  till  that  moment,  had 
never  experienced  the  least  ennui,  and  who  had  now  found  it 
in  everything,  how  much-soever  she  sought  to  avoid  it. 

Habib  and  his  queen  remained  a  few  days  with  their  kind 
relations,  and  returned  to  Medinaz-il-ballor,  carrying  with  them 
llzaide  and  her  sister,  by  a  route  through  which  their  dolphins 
sould  not  follow  them. 

The  capital  islands  of  Dorathil-goase's  dominions  had  no\* 
f *ery  appearance  of  a  happy  and  flourishing  state ;  and  tin 


640  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

return  of  their  king  and  queen  completed  the  joy  of  the  i 
itants. 

The  youthful  couple,  who  were  still  lovers,  added  to  th€ 
mutual  felicity  they  enjoyed  in  each  other's  company,  the  plea 
sure  of  contributing  by  every  means  in  their  power  to  the 
interest  and  welfare  of  their  people. 

Elabousatrous  too,  rejoiced  at  the  happiness  of  his  family, 
and  had  the  satisfaction  of  seeing  his  grand  project  rapidly 
advance  towards  its  accomplishment. 

Every  day  produced  the  legitimate  union  of  a  genie  with 
one  of  the  children  of  Adam.  He  saw  them  submit  to  a  law, 
which,  though  it  seemed  to  diminish  their  power,  was,  never 
theless,  very  beneficial  to  them. 

Soon  after  their  arrival,  it  was  agreed  that  one  of  the  daugh- 
ters of  the  sea  should  give  her  hand  to  a  kinsman  of  Dorathil- 
goase.  It  was  also  proposed  that  Ilzaide  should  marry. 

"  With  whom  ? "  cried  she,  "  there  are  no  knights  here. 
You  shall  send  me  to  Arabia ;  that  is  the  country  of  heroes ! " 

"My  charming  girl,"  answered  Dorathil-goase,  "we  shall 
most  willingly  carry  you  there,  when  we  return  to  visit  our 
worthy  parents ;  but  thou  wert  born  in  the  sea,  and  habituated 
to  that  element ;  how,  then,  could  you  live  in  a  country  where 
little  else  is  to  be  seen  than  vast  plains  covered  with  dry 
sand."  "  Love  can  make  every  place  agreeable,"  returned  Il- 
zaide, with  vivacity ;  "  even  the  elements  are  subject  to  its 
empire.  If  the  knight,  your  dear  husband,  had  feared  them, 
you  never  would  have  possessed  him ;  and  could  I  hope  for 
the  conquest  of  such  a  heart,  I  think  I  could  equal  the  best 
knight  of  Arabia  in  resolution  and  generosity." 

The  Story  of  the  Princess  Parizade  ;  or,  the  Talking  Bird,  th* 
Singing  Tree,  and  the  Yellow  Water. 

THEKE  was  a  king  of  Persia,  named  Khosrouschah,  who 
came  very  young  to  the  crown.  When  he  grew  up,  in  ordei 
to  acquire  a  knowledge  of  mankind,  he  determined  to  adopt 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  541 

ifce  practice  of  mingling  with  society  occasionally,  in  disguise^ 
Attended  only  by  his  vizier.  One  of  those  rambles  produced  a 
rery  interesting  adventure. 

As  he  was  passing  in  the  evening  through  a  street,  where 
the  meaner  sort  of  people  dwelt,  his  attention  was  engaged  by 
some  loud  conversation  and  laughter.  He  perceived  a  cracfc 
in  the  door  of  the  house,  which  he  looked  through,  and  saw 
three  very  agreeable  young  women  talking  together  with  much 
earnestness  and  mirth. 

"  Might  I  have  my  wish,"  said  the  eldest,  "  I  wouid  marry 
the  sultan's  baker;  I  should  then  every  day  have  the  same 
excellent  bread  which  is  served  at  the  sultan's  table ! "  "  I," 
replied  the  second,  "  would  choose  the  sultan's  chief  cook :  J 
then,  no  doubt,  should  eat  of  those  nice  dishes  which  he  pre- 
pares for  his  master ;  nor  should  I  want  the  royal  bread  to 
relish  them." 

After  they  had  entertained  themselves  with  their  wishes, 
they  called  upon  their  youngest  sister  to  name  her  desirea 
"  I  should  wish,"  said  she,  "  to  be  wife  of  the  sultan  himself, 
and  make  him  father  of  a  prince,  whose  hair  should  be  gold 
on  one  side  of  his  head,  and  silver  on  the  other ;  when  he 
cried,  the  tears  should  be  pearls ;  and  when  he  smiled,  his 
vermilion  lips  should  look  like  a  rose-bud  fresh  blown."  The 
extravagance  of  this  wish  increased'  the  mirth  of  the  young 
^omen.  The  sultan  laughed  heartily  at  it,  and  having  order- 
ed the  vizier  to  notice  the  house,  and  summon  the  inhabitants 
to  appear  before  him  at  the  divan  next  day,  he  pursued  hii 
walk. 

When  they  appeared  before  the  sultan,  they  were  so  ex 
ceedingly  confounded  to  hear  him  question  them  about  their 
conversation  the  preceding  evening,  that  they  could  make  him 
00  answer.  He  told  them  he  had  heard  their  wishes,  and 
was  determined  to  gratify  them.  Accordingly,  he  gave  the 
widest  sister  to  his  chief  baker,  and  the  second  to  his  head 
cook,  for  wives  ;  and  they  were  married  to  them  the  samt 
day,  with  inch  ceremonies  as  were  suitable  to  the  quality  of 

46 


542  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

iheir  husbands.  But  the  younger  sister,  who  was  very  beau 
tiful,  was  immediately  clothed,  and  attended  as  became  a  greai 
queen  ;  and  the  royal  nuptials  were  solemnized  with  all  the 
rejoicings  usual  at  the  marriage  of  the  sultan  of  Persia. 

Before  these  events,  the  two  eldest  sisters  would  have  thought 
it  great  good  fortune  to  have  become  the  wives  of  the  sultan's 
gervants ;  yet  they  now  pined  with  envy  at  the  advancement 
ef  their  sister.  They  joined  in  an  inveterate  hate  against  the 
Kultaness,  which  they  agreed  to  conceal  till  some  opportunity 
should  offer  to  ruin  her.  In  the  mean  time,  they  each  came 
frequently  to  pay  court  to  her,  and  always  expressed  the  great 
est  joy  at  her  exaltation. 

The  young  sultaness  really  loved  her  sisters,  and  had  no 
doubt  but  they  returned  her  love.  When  she  became  breeding 
they  requested  she  would  obtain  the  sultan's  permission  for 
them  to  perform  the  office  of  mid-wife.  This  the  sultan  readily 
granted.  The  wicked  sisters  rejoiced  in  secret  at  this  appoint- 
ment ;  they  laid  a  plot  as  barbarous  as  it  was  unnatural ;  and 
when  the  poor  sultaness  was  delivered,  they  conveyed  away 
the  infant  and  produced  a  little  dead  dog,  which  they  said  their 
sister  had  brought  forth.  The  sultan  heard  the  account  with 
great  grief,  and  some  resentment  against  his  wife ;  which  how- 
ever soon  gave  way  to  the  charms  and  good  qualities  of  the 
Bultaness. 

The  merciless  sisters  conveyed  the  child,  who  was  a  fine  boy, 
into  a  basket,  and  set  it  afloat  on  a  stream  which  ran  through 
the  royal  garden.  The  intendant  of  the  gardens,  who  was  one  of 
the  most  considerable  officers  of  the  kingdom,  chanced  to  see 
the  basket,  which  he  caused  to  be  brought  to  the  shore.  H€ 
was  much  surprised  to  find  in  it  a  fine  child. 

He  saw  that  it  came  not  far  from  the  sultaness's  apartment \ 
but  conceiving  it  neither  his  business,  nor  his  interest  to  search 
into  such  kind  of  secrets,  he  contented  himself  with  conveying 
the  infant  home,  and  as  he  had  no  children  of  his  own,  he  de- 
termined to  adopt  the  little  foundling. 

The  year  after,  the  sultaness  was  brourht  to  bet1  of  anoihoi 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  &f> 

prince,  whom  her  vile  sisters  conveyed  as  before,  and  produced  a 
eat  as  their  sister's  offspring.  It  was  with  difficulty  the  sultai 
prevailed  on  himself  to  see  his  unfortunate  wife,  after  this  second 
accident ;  but  when  after  having  again  received  her  to  his  arms, 
she  produced  a  mole,  —  which  her  sisters  had  substituted  in  the 
place  of  a  beautiful  princess,  —  the  sultan  set  no  bounds  to  his 
indignation.  "  She  is  a  monster,"  said  he,  with  equal  fury  and 
detestation,  "  and  will  fill  my  palace  with  monsters.  I  will  rid 
the  world  of  her.  By  the  interposition  of  the  vizier,  the  sul- 
tan was  induced  to  spare  the  life  of  his  unhappy  spouse,  yet 
he  ordered  her  to  be  exposed  three  days  to  public  scorn,  and 
<aen  shut  up  in  prison  for  the  rest  of  her  life. 

The  two  infants  fortunately  fell  into  the  same  humane  hands 
which  had  preserved  their  brother.  The  intendant  named  the 
eldest  prince  B&hman ;  the  other  Perviz ;  and  the  princess 
Parizade.  He  regarded  them  as  children  sent  to  him  by  provi- 
dence ;  he  attached  himself  to  them  entirely ;  he  watched  ovei 
their  rising  years  with  she  solicitude  of  a  real  parent,  and  wher 
he  died,  which  was  not  till  they  had  nearly  arrived  at  maturity, 
'ie  left  them  his  whole  fortune ;  and  they  lamented  him  with 
i  duty  and  affection  truly  filial. 

The  fortune  they  inherited  from  their  foster  father,  enabled 
ku  princes  and  their  sister  to  live  together  very  comfortably 
They  passed  their  time  wholly  at  a  country  residence,  whic| 
he  had  fitted  up  in  a  handsome  style.  The  princes  devoted 
many  of  their  hours  to  hunting ;  while  Parizade  cultivated,  by 
turns,  elegant  amusements,  and  domestic  employment. 

As  there  was  no  mosque  in  the  neighborhood,  the  intendani 
had  fitted  up  an  oratory  in  the  house.  One  day  when  tha 
princes  were  engaged  in  their  sport,  an  old  woman,  who  pro- 
fessed public  and  extraordinary  piety,  came  to  the  gate,  and 
desired  leave  to  go  in  and  say  her  prayers,  it  being  then  the 
hour  of  public  worship.  She  was  admitted,  and  when  she  had 
finished  her  devotions,  was  introduced  to  the  princess. 

Parizade  received  her  with  great  kindness ;  commending 
h*fl  piety,  and  asking  her  many  questior  e  respecting  her  wat 


44  ARABIAN    NIGHTS 

rf  life.  A  long  conversation  ensued,  in  the  course  of  irMch 
/he  princess  casually  asked  her  how  she  liked  the  house  ?  "  It 
is  in  everything  delightful,"  replied  the  devotee  ;  "  and  wanti 
but  three  things,  that  I  know  of,  to  be  absolutely  complete."  "  I 
conjure  you,  my  good  mother,"  said  the  princess, "  to  tell  me  what 
those  things  are  ! "  "  Madam,"  answered  the  old  woman,  "  the 
first  is  the  talking  bird,  who  not  only  can  talk  and  reason  like 
as,  but  as  a  bird  can  call  all  the  singing  birds,  in  his  neighbor- 
hood, to  come  and  join  in  his  song.  The  second  is  the  singing 
Iree,  the  leaves  of  which  are  so  many  mouths,  which  form  a 
most  hirmonious  concert.  The  third  is  the  yellcw  water,  a 
small  quantity  of  which  being  put  into  a  basin,  fills  it,  and 
forms  a  beautiful  fountain,  which  continually  plays  without 
overflowing.  These  things  are  to  be  obtained  all  together,  at 
one  place  only,  on  the  confines  of  this  kingdom  towards  India. 
Any  one  taking  the  road  before  your  house  for  twenty  days, 
will  find  a  person  who  can  direct  him  to  the  place  where  they 
may  be  found/'  Having  said  this,  she  arose  and  bade  the 
princess  farewell. 

This  conversation  had  a  great  effect  on  Parizade ;  she  en 
tertained  the  most  eager  desire  to  obtain  these  curiosities.  Sh« 
was  musing  on  her  conversation  with  the  old  woman,  when  her 
brothers  returned,  and  wondered  to  see  her  pensive  and  melan- 
choly. They  inquired  eagerly,  what  it  was  that  afflicted  her  ? 
It  was  a  long  time  before  the  princess  would  explain  the 
mystery;  but,  at  last,  overborne  by  their  importunities,  she 
told  them  what  had  passed,  and  owned  that  her  desire  to  be 
mistress  of  the  talking  bird,  the  singing  tree,  and  the  yellow 
water,  was  the  cause  of  her  melancholy. 

The  princes  both  loved  their  sister  with  the  utmost  affection 
Each  eagerly  offered  to  go  in  search  of  these  fine  things  she 
so  much  longed  for.  After  some  contest,  it  was  agreed  that 
prince  Bahman  should  set  off*  next  morning  in  search  of  them. 
When  he  was  about  to  mount  his  horse,  he  presented  a  knife  to 
his  sister,  saying,  "I  know  not  what  difficulties,  or  what  delay 
I  may  meet  with  IP  this  adventure ;  but  tbat  my  dearest  sJ3ter 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  54** 

may  ^ot  have  unnecessary  fears  on  my  account,  I  present  this 
knife  to  her.  While  the  blade  of  it  is  clean,  yoi  may  be  as- 
sured I  am  well.  But  if  ever  you  find  it  stained  with  blood 
you  may  conclude  some  fatal  accident  hath  befallen  me." 

Prince  Bahman  took  the  road  to  India,  and  on  the  twentietl 
day  he  saw  a  dervise,  sitting  under  a  tree,  whose  figure  at 
tracted  his  notice.  His  hair  was  as  white  as  snow  ;  his  mus- 
taches were  long,  and  with  his  beard,  which  reached  down  t€ 
his  waist,  entirely  hid  his  mouth.  He  had  no  clothes,  but  hai? 
an  old  mat  thrown  over  his  shoulders. 

Bahman  concluded,  from  the  singularity  of  this  old  man's 
appearance,  that  he  was  the  person  who  was  to  give  informa 
tion  of  the  place  he  was  in  search  of.  He  alighted,  therefore 
from  his  horse,  and  saluted  the  old  man. 

The  dervise  returned  his  salute,  but  his  mustaches  hanging 
over  his  lips,  the  prince  could  not  understand  a  word  he  said. 
Bahman,  vexed  at  this  disppointment,  with  a  pair  of  scissors 
cut  away  the  hair  which  hung  over  the  old  man's  mouth,  which 
he  took  in  good  part.  After  thanking  the  prince,  with  a  smile, 
for  the  trouble  he  had  taken,  he  inquired  if  he  could  be  of  any 
service  to  him.  "  I  am  come,"  said  Bahman,  "  a  long  way,  in 
search  of  the  talking  bird,  the  singing  tree,  and  the  yellow 
water.  If  you  can  direct  me  where  they  are  to  be  found,  you 
will  render  me  much  service  and  pleasure." 

At  these  words  the  old  man  changed  countenance,  and  said 
to  the  prince,  "  I  can  indeed  direct  you  to  where  these  fatal 
curiosities  are  to  be  found  ;  but  I  felt  a  regard  for  you  as  soon 
as  I  saw  you,  which  your  kindness  to  me  has  increased.  1 
entreat  you,  therefore,  to  cease  an  inquiry  which  I  am  not  at 
liberty  to  refuse  answering,  if  you  persist,  but  which  I  am  too 
»ure  will  end  in  your  destruction." 

The  prince  persisting  in  his  resolution,  the  dervise  said, 
*  Young  man,  the  danger  you  court  is  greater  than  you  imag- 
ine ;  many  gallant  gentlemen  have  I  directed  in  this  search, 
who  have  all  perished.  Your  courage  or  dexterity  will  avail 
you  nothirg  for  you  will  be  attacked  by  great  numbers,  all 

46* 


546  4RABIAN   NIGHTS 

invisible.     How  then  can  you  hope  to  defend  yourself?  "     a  1 
am  not  to  be  intimidated  from  niy  purpose,"  replied  BaLman  \ 
and  since  you  are  obliged  to  give  me  the  information  I  re- 
quire,  I  demand  it  of  you/' 

When  the  dervise  found  the  prince  thus  peremptory,  he  took 
a  bowl  out  of  the  bag  that  lay  by  him,  and  presented  it  to  him, 
saying, "  Mount  your  horse,  then,  rash  youth,  and  throw  this  on 
the  ground.  Follow  it  till  it  comes  to  the  foot  of  a  mountain, 
where  it  will  stop.  You  must  then  alight,  and  ascend  the 
mountain  on  foot ;  but  be  careful  not  to  give  way  to  fear,  or  to 
look  behind  you.  The  instant  you  do,  you  will  cease  to  be  ft 
man,  and  will  add  one  more  to  the  multitude  of  black  stones 
which  you  will  see  on  every  side ;  all  of  which  were  once  gen- 
tlemen engaged  in  the  same  enterprise.  If  you  reach  the 
summit  of  the  mountain,  you  will  obtain  the  curiosities  you 
inquire  after." 

The  prince  rejoiced  to  find  he  was  so  near  the  end  of  hia 
journey.  Having  returned  thanks  to  the  dervise,  he  threw 
down  the  bowl,  which  rolled  on  gently  before  him,  till  it 
reached  the  foot  of  a  mountain.  Bahman  prepared  to  ascend 
it,  but  he  had  not  advanced  four  steps,  before  he  heard  innu- 
merable voices,  bursting  out  as  it  seemed  from  under  the  earth. 
Of  these,  some  ridiculed,  some  abused,  and  others  threatened 
him.  "  Where  is  that  rash  youth  going  ?  what  would  he  have  ? 
stop  him,  catch  him ;  ah !  thief,  murderer,  villain  !  No !  let  the 
fool  go  on  till  he  is  destroyed.  Let  pretty  master  pass,  to  be 
sure ;  we  keep  the  bird  for  him  no  doubt !  Such,  and  many 
other  worse  expressions  assailed  him,  in  voices  calculated  to 
inspire  shame,  anger,  and  dismay. 

As  the  prince  advanced,  the  clamor  increased,  attended  with 
execrations  and  threatenings  on  all  sides.  It  became  at  last  so 
tremendous,  that  Bahman's  courage  and  strength  failed  him 
his  legs  sunk  under  him,  he  reeled,  his  recollection  forsook 
him ;  and  turning  round  to  run  down  the  hill,  he  was  that 
nr  stant  changed  into  a  black  stone 

Frrnj  *Jhe  time  of  prince  Bahman's  departure,  Parizade  had 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  54> 

train  his  f  ;vife  in  her  girdle  ;  and  many  times  in  a  day  slit! 
Dulled  it  out  to  know  ho^  it  fared  with  her  brothoi.  On  the 
fatal  day,  when  he  was  thus  metamorphosed,  as  she  was  talk- 
ing to  her  brother  Perviz,  she  recollected  Bahman ;  and 
pulling  out  the  knife,  she  saw  with  grief  and  horror,  blood  run- 
ning down  to  the  point  of  it.  She  swooned  away  at  the 
shocking  sight ;  and  when  she  was  with  difficulty  recovered, 
she  broke  out  in  the  severest  self-reproach  for  having  engaged 
a  beloved  brother  in  such  an  unfortunate  enterprise.  Ana 
while  she  blamed  her  own  inordinate  desires,  she  failed  not  to 
execrate  the  old  woman,  whose  report  had  led  her  into  so  mis- 
chievous an  error. 

Prince  Perviz  was  greatly  afflicted  at  the  fate  of  his  brother. 
He  was  also  exceedingly  fond  of  his  sister ;  and  perceiving 
that  in  the  midst  of  her  sorrow,  though  she  lamented  the  loss 
of  Bahman,  her  desire  to  possess  the  talking  bird,  and  singing 
tree,  and  the  yellow  water,  was  still  undiminished.  He  em- 
braced Parizade  with  great  affection,  and  told  her  that,  though 
Bahman  had  failed  in  search  of  them,  he  had  a  presentiment 
that  he  should  be  more  successful.  He  presented  her  with  a 
necklace  consisting  of  an  hundred  pearls,  and  said,  "  I  will  set 
out  this  instant.  While  these  pearls  continue  to  run  freely, 
you  may  be  sure  I  am  safe ;  but  if  ever  they  remain  fixed 
together,  you  will  then  know  that  I  have  shared  the  same  fate 
as  our  dear  brother." 

Parizaae  endeavored,  by  tears  and  entreaties,  to  prevent  the 
prince  from  attempting  so  dangerous  an  undertaking ;  but  in 
vain.  He  mounted  his  horse,  and  on  the  twentieth  day  arrived 
at  the  place  where  the  dervise  was  sitting.  He  saluted  him, 
and  inquired  the  way  to  the  curiosities  he  was  seeking.  The 
dervise  acquainted  him  with  the  difficulty  and  danger  of  the 
adventure  ;  pressing  him  very  earnestly  to  decline  an  attempt 
in  which  so  many  had  failed.  When  he  found  the  prince  was 
determined  to  go  on,  he  gave  him  the  same  advice  and  instruc- 
tion he  had  given  to  his  brother.  Perviz  returned  him  tha^ka, 


b48  ARABIAN  NIGHTS' 

and  throwing  ,he  l>owl  on  the  ground,  he  followed  it  till  ins 
came  to  the  foot  of  the  mountain. 

Having  alighted,  be  paused  a  little  while,  to  recollect  the 
instructions  of  the  dervise.  He  then  passed  through  those 
clamors,  wnich  had  overcome  Bahman,  undismayed ;  but  as  he 
proceeded  up  the  mountain,  he  heard  a  voice  behind  him  call 
out  in  a  most  insulting  tone, "  Stay,  rash  boy,  that  I  may  punish 
jrour  impudent  attempt."  Perviz,  enraged  at  such  an  affront, 
flrew  his  sword,  and  turning  round  to  chastise  the  insulter, 
became  a  stone. 

Parizade  had  the  string  of  pearls  continually  in  her  hand, 
from  the  time  Perviz  set  out,  and  was  counting  them  at  the 
moment  he  underwent  the  transformation.  On  a  sudden  she 
found  she  could  not  separate  the  pearls.  As  the  princess  had 
resolved  what  to  do,  if  such  an  event  should  take  place,  she  lost 
no  time  in  fruitless  grief ;  but  putting  on  a  man's  apparel,  she 
mounted  a  horse,  and  took  the  same  road  her  brothers  had 
done. 

On  the  twentieth  day  she  came  to  the  dervise  ;  who,  not- 
withstanding her  disguise,  knew  her  to  be  a  woman,  and  gave 
her  such  an  account  of  the  difficulty  of  her  attempt,  as  almost 
shook  her  resolution.  She  mused  a  short  time ;  but  remem- 
bering she  had  lost  her  two  brothers,  in  searching  after  these 
rarities,  she  resolved  to  succeed,  or  share  in  their  misfortunes. 

Parizade  received  therefore  the  bowl  from  the  dervise,  and 
followed  it  to  the  foot  of  the  mountain.  Before  she  began  to 
ascend  it,  she  considered,  that  as  the  greatest  danger  arose 
from  noises  and  voices,  which  would  endeavor  to  terrify  her; 
if  she  could  shut  out  these  sounds,  by  stopping  her  ears,  their 
effect  must  fail.  Accordingly  she  stuffed  her  ears  full  of  cot- 
ion,  and  then  began  to  ascend  the  mountain.  She  heard 
indeed  a  great  noise,  which  increased  exceedingly  as  she 
advanced,  and  became  at  length  so  loud  that  the  air  and  earth 
Deemed  to  shake  with  it ;  but  the  precaution  she  had  taken, 
shut  out  distinct  sounds,  and  all  she  perceived  was  one  ooir 
fased  noise,  whi  ih  no  way  incommoded  her. 


ENTERTAINMENTS  349 

Now  and  then,  a  single  voice  louder  than  the  rest,  vouk 
atter  expressions,  of  which  she  could  not  help  cat<  hing  a  fe\i 
fiords,  which  were  very  disagreeable  to  her ;  but  these  sha 
despised,  saying  to  herself,  "  I  mind  not  what  is  said.  I  laugh 
At  it,  and  shall  pursue  my  journey." 

At  last  the  princess  came  in  sight  of  the  bird.  At  that 
Instant  one  of  the  cotton  plugs  fell  out  of  her  ear.  Th« 
thrsatenings  and  execrations,  which  she  now  heard  distinctly, 
were  terrible.  The  bird  himself,  in  a  voice  more  tremendous 
than  all  of  them,  called  out  to  her  to  go  back,  promising  at 
the  same  time  that  she  should  return  in  safety.  But  the  sight 
of  the  bird  animated  the  courage  of  the  princess.  She  pressed 
forward  boldly,  till  she  came  to  the  top  of  the  mountain,  when 
the  noises  ceased,  and  the  ground  was  level.  She  ran  to  the 
cage  and  seized  it,  saying,  "  Bird,  1  have  got  thee,  in  spite  of 
thee.  Thou  shalt  not  escape  me." 

The  bird  in  a  very  handsome  manner  complimented  the 
princess  on  her  courage  and  perseverance.  "  It  was  my  wish," 
said  he,  "  to  have  continued  free ;  but  as  I  must  be  a  slave,  I 
had  rather  be  so  to  you,  brave  lady,  than  to  any  other.  From 
this  instant,  I  swear  an  entire  fidelity  to  you  ;  and  the  time  is 
not  far  off  when  I  shall  do  you  an  essential  service." 

Parizade  rejoiced  greatly  at  her  success ;  for  the  fatigue  and 
terror  she  had  undergone,  far  exceeded  what  she  had  expected 
from  the  report  of  the  dervise.  As  soon  as  she  was  a  little 
recovered,  she  demanded  of  the  bird,  where  the  singing  tree 
ind  yellow  water  were  to  be  found.  The  bird  directed  her  to 
Doth.  The  princess  filled  a  small  silver  flagon  with  the  water, 
ind  by  the  advice  of  the  bird,  broke  off  a  branch  of  the  sing- 
Tig  tree  to  carry  home  with  her. 

Parizade  had  now  obtained  the  three  things  she  so  much 
wished  for ;  yet  she  was  unhappy.  The  loss  of  her  brothers 
Bat  heavy  at  her  heart.  She  applied  to  the  bird  to  knew  if  if 
was  possible  to  dissolve  the  enchantment.  It  was  with  muci 
reh  ctance  that  the  bird  answered  this  inquiry ;  but  the  prifc 
toss  ^<is  peremptory,  and  coul<$  .  ot  be  denied. 


550  ARABIAN    NIGHTS* 

"Take,  tben,"  said  he,  "that  little  pitcher  you  set,  y 
and  drop  some  of  the  water  it  holds,  upon  ersry  bla^K  stone 
The  princess  did  so  ;  and  when  the  water  fell  on  the  stone,  it 
vanished,  and  a  man  appeared.  The  princess  took  care  not  to 
miss  a  single  stone.  She  was  so  happy  as  to  find  among  them 
both  her  brothers,  who  joined  the  other  gentlemen  in  thanking 
*nd  extolling  their  deliverer. 

When  they  came,  on  their  return,  to  the  cave  of  the  dervise, 
they  found  he  was  dead.  In  a  few  days  they  arrived  at  home, 
when  Parizade  placed  the  cage  in  the  garden,  and  as  soon  as 
the  bird  began  to  sing,  he  was  surrounded  by  a  great  number 
of  nightingales,  chaffinches,  linnets,  and  other  birds  of  song, 
who,  uniting  their  harmony  with  his,  produced  a  wonderful 
effect.  She  planted  the  branch  of  the  singing  tree  in  another 
part  of  the  garden,  when  it  immediately  took  root,  and  became 
as  large  a  tree  as  that  from  whence  it  was  gathered,  and  the 
leaves  produced  the  same  melodious  concert.  The  silver  flag- 
on of  the  yellow  water  being  emptied  into  a  large  marble 
basin,  increased  directly  to  such  a  quantity  as  entirely  to  fill 
it,  and  form  a  fine  fountain,  twenty  feet  high,  which,  while  it 
played  \,~ry  beautifully,  dispersed  the  most  agreeable  odors  all 
around  it. 

Soon  after  these  events,  the  sultan  of  Persia  chanced  to  be 
hunting  in  their  neighborhood.  The  princes  also  were  en- 
gaged in  the  chase.  As  they  knew  not  the  person  of  the  sul- 
tan, they  joined  his  party  without  ceremony,  and  in  the  course 
of  the  hunt,  Bahman  attacked  a  lion,  and  Perviz  a  bear,  with 
so  much  courage  and  agility  as  greatly  pleased  the  sultaa, 
After  the  hunt,  he  conversed  with  them,  and  was  still  more 
taken  with  them.  He  declared  who  he  was,  and  invited  the 
brothers  to  court.  That  they  might  not  forget  the  engagement, 
he  put  three  golden  bullets  into  each  of  their  bosoms.  "  When 
you  undress,"  said  he,  "  these  will  fall  to  the  ground,  and  theu 
Bound  will  remind  you  of  my  invitation."  . 

The  princes  presented  themselves  the  next  day  before  th« 
•ultan,  and  were  received  by  him  with  great  distinction.  Be 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  651 

fore  they  withdrew,  they  related  to  him  theii  adventure  in 
search  of  the  talking  bird,  the  singing  tree,  arid  the  yellow 
water ;  and  of  their  deliverance  through  the  fortitude  of  Paid- 
eade.  The  monarch  heard  their  account  witl  great  pleasure : 
*  I  will  come  to-morrow,"  said  he,  "  to  see  these  rarities,  and 
converse  with  your  sister,  to  whose  courage  and  good  conduct 
you  are  so  much  indebted." 

When  the  princes  returned  home,  and  told  Parizade  the  sul- 
tan's intention,  she  consulted  her  bird  as  to  the  manner  in  which 
the  ought  to  receive  him.  The  bird,  after  some  general  ad- 
trice,  desired  she  would  not  fail  to  prepare  a  dish  of  cucumbers, 
itufied  full  of  pearls,  to  be  set  before  the  sultan  with  the  first 
course.  The  princess  was  amazed,  but  the  bird  persisted  in 
his  advi2e,  and  told  her  in  what  part  of  the  garden  she  might 
find  a  coffer,  full  of  pearls  suited  to  such  a  purpose.  The 
princess  perceived  there  was  some  mystery  concealed  under 
this  advice.  She  caused  the  gardener  to  dig  in  the  spot  de- 
scribed, and  found  a  gold  box  full  of  pearls.  Hence  her  con- 
fidence in  the  bird  was  increased,  and  she  was  resolved  to  do 
as  he  directed. 

The  day  following,  the  sultan  came  to  the  house  of  his  un- 
known children,  and  was  received  by  them  with  all  possible 
respect.  He  was  more  pleased  with  Parizade  than  ne  had 
been  with  her  brothers,  and  could  not  help  heaving  a  sigh  when 
it  occurred  to  him  that  he  might  have  been  the  happy  father  of 
three  such  children,  if  he  had  not  been  so  unfortunate  in  the 
ehoice  of  his  sultaness. 

After  the  sultan  had  reposed,  the  princess  attended  him  into 
the  garden,  and  showed  him  the  singing  tree,  and  the  yellow 
wakar.  The  sultan  examined  these  extraordinary  curiosities 
with  great  attention  and  delight.  Parizade  then  conducted 
lum  to  a  tree,  where  the  cage  of  the  talking  bird  was  hung. 
The  sultan  was  surprised  to  see  such  a  multitude  o*  rhei 
Dirds  on  the  adjacent  trees,  all  singing  in  concert  with  the  talk- 
ing bird,  whose  notes  were  louder  and  more  musical  than  any 


fi52  ARABIAN   NIGHTS 

of  them.  When  they  drew  near,  the  princess  said,  "  My  slave, 
here  is  the  sultan  of  Persia ;  pay  your  compliments  to  him* 
The  bird  left  off  singing,  and  replied,  "  God  prospep ,  him,  and 
prolong  his  days."  To  which  the  sultan  replied,  "  Bifcd,  I  thank 
thee,  and  am  overjoyed  to  find  in  thee  the  sultan  and  king  of 
birds." 

At  the  request  of  her  royal  guest,  Parizade  caused  the  cage 
to  be  removed  into  the  hall,  that  he  might  converse  with  the 
bird  during  dinner.  As  soon  as  they  were  seated,  the  sultan 
took  a  cucumber  out  of  the  dish,  and  cutting  it,  he  found  it 
was  stuffed  with  pearls.  He  looked  with  wonder  on  the  princes 
and  their  sister,  and  was  about  to  ask  the  meaning  of  the 
mystery,  when  the  bird  called  out,  "  Can  your  majesty  won- 
der to  see  a  cucumber  stuffed  with  pearls,  and  yet  could  be- 
lieve that  your  sultaness  was  delivered  of  a  dog,  a  cat,  and  a 
mole?  credulous  man!  how  have  you  abused  your  unfortu- 
nate wife,  who  has  fallen  a  sacrifice  to  the  envy  of  her  wicked 
sisters !  These  three  young  people  are  your  children.  Their 
lives  were  preserved  by  the  intendant  of  your  gardens ;  and 
their  many  virtues,  and  great  accomplishments,  will  make  the 
remainder  of  your  days  more  happy  than  you  deserve." 

This  discourse  of  the  bird  excited  a  variety  of  passions  in 
the  breast  of  the  sultan ;  pity  for  his  unhappy  consort,  rage 
against  her  vile  sisters,  wonder  at  the  strange  and  singular 
means  of  discovering  their  guilt,  by  turns  possessed  him.  All 
these  ideas  soon  gave  way,  for  a  time,  to  the  feelings  of  pater- 
nal love ;  he  embraced  the  princes  and  their  sister,  with  the 
utmost  tenderness ;  and  with  tears  of  joy,  owned  them  for  his 
children,  and  heirs  of  his  crown. 

When  the  sultan  returned  to  his  palace,  he  gave  ordtrs  for 
ihe  sisters  of  the  sultaness  to  be  brought  before  him.  As  so 
many  years  had  passed  over  without  suspicion,  these  women 
had  long  thought  themselves  secure,  and  rejoiced  in  the  suc- 
cess of  their  malicious  wickedness.  They  were  astonished  at 
being  charged  with  crime*,  which  could  not  have  been  dis- 


ENTERTAINMENTS.  551 

covered  now  by  any  ordinary  means.  Their  guilt  and  terroi 
confour  led  them  ;  they  made  an  ample  confession  ;  and  the 
dltan  ordered  them  immediately  to  be  put  to  death. 

Kosrouschah  caused  his  much  injured  wife  to  be  set  at 
liberty ;  and  having  informed  her  of  all  that  had  happened,  he 
ordered  their  children  to  be  introduced  to  her.  These  events 
made  the  poor  sultaness  some  amends  for  her  long  and  dismal 
confinement.  The  joy  of  the  sultan  was  inexpressible,  and 
the  rejoicings  which  followed  all  over  the  kingdom,  showed 
that  the  people  were  highly  interested  in  a  discovery,  which 
was  so  satisfactory  to  their  sovereign. 

CONCLUSION. 

The  sultan  of  the  Indies  could  not  but  admire  the  memory 
of  his  sultaness,  who  had  now,  for  a  thousand  and  one  nights, 
entertained  him  with  these  agreeable  stories.  Her  beauty, 
her  courage,  her  patriotism  in  exposing  her  life  to  his  unrea 
sonable  revenge,  had  long  since  obtained  for  her  the  posses- 
sion of  his  heart.  He  determined  to  renounce  a  vow  so  un- 
worthy of  him  ;  and  summoning  his  council,  he  declared  to 
them  his  resolution,  and  ordered  the  sultaness  to  be  consid- 
ered as  rne  ieliverer  of  the  many  virgins,  who,  but  for  her, 
would  have  been  sacrificed  to  his  unjust  resentment. 

The  news  of  this  happy  event  soon  spread  abroad,  and 
gained  the  charming  Scheherazade  the  blessings  of  all  the 
larg?  empire  of  the  Indies. 


47 


CONTENTS. 


Schahriar  ard  fetshahzenan, • 5 

The  Ox.  the  Ass,  and  the  Farmer, , 9 

The  Merchant  and  the  Genie, ...», 13 

The  Ola  Man  and  the  Hind,... o 14 

Story  of  the  Old  Man  and  the  two  Black  Dogs, 16 

Story  of  the  Fisherman, 17 

Story  of  the  Grecian  King  and  the  Physician  Dotibaxx, 20 

History  of  the  King  of  the  Black  Isles, 27 

fetory  of  tne  Three  Calendars,  Sons  of  Kings,  and  of  the  Fiye  Ladies 

I    ofBagdad, 32 

JHistory  of  the  first  Calendar, 38 

•History  of  the  second  Calendar, 42 

Story  of  the  Envious  Man,  and  of  him  that  he  envied, 46 

iHistory  of  the  third  Calendar 6"2 

'History  of  Zobeide, 62 

History  of  Amine 64 

jThe  Seven  Voyages  of  Sindbad  the  Sailor, 67 

Sindbad's  First  Voyage, 68 

Sindbad's  Second  Voyage, 70 

Sindbad's  Third  Voyage, 74 

Sindbad's  Fourth  Voyage, 78 

Sindbad's  Fifth  Voyage, w 83 

Sindbad's  Sixth  Voyage, 87 

iSindbad's  Seventh  Voyage,  ..  v 90 

History  of  the  Three  Apples, .". » 98 

Story  of  Noureddin  Ali  and  Bedreddin  Hassan, .....  98 

xStory  of  Aladdin,  or  the  Wonderful  Lamp, 11A 

Story  of  Little  Hunchback, 14? 

The  Story  told  by  +-he  Christian  Merchant, 144 


556  CONTENTS. 

The  Story  told  by  the  Purveyor, ....151 

The  Story  told  by  the  Jewish  Physician, 156 

The  Story  told  by  the  Tailor, 163 

Story  of  the  Barber, » „ ,.168 

Story  of  the  Barber's  El'dest  Brother, 169 

Story  of  the  Barber's  Second  Brother, 17 

Story  of  the  Barber's  Third  Brother, 173 

Story  of  the  Barber's  Fourth  Brother, 176 

Story  of  the  Barber's  Fifth  Brother, 178 

Story  of  the  Barber's  Sixth  Brother, 182 

History  of  Aboulhassen  Ali  Eben  Becar,  and  Schemselnihar,  favor- 
ite of  the  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid, 186 

History  of  Camaralzaman  Prince  of  Khaledan,  and  Badoura,  Prin- 
cess of  China, 197 

Story  of  the  Princess  Badoura,  after  her  separation  from  Prince 

Camaralzaman, 213 

Story  of  the  Princes  Amgrad  and  Assad, 220 

Story  of  Noureddin  and  the  ^air  Persian, 236 

Story  of  Beder,  Prince  of  Persia,  and  Giahaure,  Princess  of  Saman- 

dal, 253 

History  of  Ganem,  son  to  Abou  Ayoub,  surnamed  Love's  Slave, ..274 

History  of  Prince  Zeyn  Alasnam,  and  the  King  of  the  Genii, 286 

History  of  Codadad  and  his  Brothers, 297 

History  of  the  Princess  of  Deryabar, 302 

Story  of  the  Sleeper  awakened,  or  the  Dead  alive, 312 

Adventures  of  the  caliph  Haroun  Alraschid, 336 

Story  of  the  Blind  Man,  Baba  Abdallah, 337 

Story  of  Sidi  Nonman, 342 

Story  of  Cogia  Hassan  Alhabdal, •••••• ...•347 

Story  of  Ali  Baba,  and  the  Forty  Thieves, 357 

Story  of  Ali  Cogia,  Merchant  of  Bagdad, 370  — 

^-History  of  the  Enchanted  Horse 374} 

Story  of  Prince  Ahmed  and  the  Fairy  Paribanon, 384 

Story  of  Habib  and  Dorathil-Goase,  or  the  Arabian  Knight 405 

Story  of  Ulabousatrous,  of  King  Schal-Goase,  and  of  Camaralzaman,419 

Story  of  the  Lady  of  the  beautiful  Tresses, 482 

Story  of  the  Princess  Parizade,  or  the  Talking  Bird,  the  Singing 

Tree,  and  the  Yellow  Water, 540 

Conclusion,  ....  669 


Tl 


14  DAY  USE 

RETURN  TO  DESK  FROM  WHICH  BORROWED 

LOAN  DEPT. 

This  book  is  due  on  the  last  date  stamped  below, 
or  on  the  date  to  which  renewed.  Renewals  only: 

Tel.  No.  642-3405 

Renewals  may  be  made  4  days  priod  to  date  due. 
ewed  books  are  subject  to  immediate  recall. 


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